Malkangiri, 19th Aug 2025: Champa Raspeda, a talented girl from the rare Didai tribal community, is set to become a doctor. After qualifying in the NEET examination, Champa has enrolled at Fakir Mohan Medical College, Balasore.
Champa’s journey from a remote, cut-off region to Balasore was not an easy one. Poverty never left her side since childhood, yet with strong determination and dedication she has reached her goal. The dream she cherished of providing healthcare services to the people of her region is now coming true, filling not just Champa but also the entire community with immense joy.
Champa hails from Amliguda village in Nakamamudi panchayat, Korukonda block, located at the foothills of Bonda Ghati. Her father, Lachhamu Raspeda, is a poor farmer. She studied up to Class VII at Nandiniguda SSD Educational Complex, where she had to walk over 20 km daily, crossing hills and rough footpaths. After Class VII, she enrolled in Chitrakonda SSD Girls’ School, 60 km away, from where she passed her Class X in 2019. Later, she studied +2 Science at Govindapalli Government SSD Higher Secondary School and +3 Science at Balimela College.
Due to financial problems, Champa’s father advised her to pursue CT and B.Ed. courses instead of medical studies. However, Champa’s teacher, Utkal Keshari Das, seeing her determination, stepped forward to support her dream. He brought Champa to Balasore, provided her accommodation in his own home, bore all expenses, and arranged NEET coaching. With his help, Champa successfully cleared the exam. Champa credits her success to her teacher Mr. Das and her father Lachhamu.
Champa has three sisters and four brothers. She has also promised that whenever she returns home during holidays, she will not only continue her own studies but also teach the village children for free.
Her achievement has been warmly congratulated by Malkangiri Collector Somesh Kumar Upadhyay, ITDA Project Administrator Haldhar Sabar, and District Welfare Officer Srinibas Achari. Champa’s success is expected to inspire the next generation of students from the Didai tribal community.