Historic Milestone in Jalpaiguri Forest Village as Teen Takes Board Exams
Monday dawned with unprecedented significance in Budhuram forest village, a remote settlement nestled beside the Gorumara National Park in Jalpaiguri district's Maynaguri block. For the first time in the village's history, a 16-year-old resident, Sumila Oraon, appeared for the crucial Madhyamik examination, marking a watershed moment for the community.
A Village United in Pride and Hope
As Sumila prepared for her examination, forest department officials arrived at the village to personally escort her to the examination center. The entire village gathered to wish her success, creating an atmosphere of collective celebration. Villagers expressed that this moment filled them with immense pride and represented a crucial step toward shedding what they described as their community's "illiterate" label.
Sumila's father, Monchal, a migrant worker, could not return to his native village to witness his daughter's historic achievement. Her mother, Rupali, a daily wage laborer, watched with tears of emotion as her daughter embarked on this educational journey.
Overcoming Extraordinary Challenges
"Living in a forest village presents unique challenges," explained Rupali, wiping away tears. "Sumila had to cycle seven kilometers daily to reach Bhabani School at Panbari. Frequently, her path was obstructed by wild animals including rhinoceros and bison. Despite these obstacles, she remained determined to continue her education. Her perseverance must yield positive results."
As a first-generation learner, Sumila harbors ambitious dreams of becoming a nurse and recognizes that achieving high marks is essential for realizing this aspiration. "I have prepared thoroughly and feel confident about my performance. I maintain an optimistic outlook," she stated with conviction.
Community and Institutional Support
The Maynaguri Panchayat Samiti actively supported Sumila's educational journey. Last Saturday, Kumud Ranjan Roy, the sabhapati of the Panchayat Samiti, visited Sumila's residence and assured her of comprehensive assistance to help pursue her nursing dream.
Additionally, the Gorumara Wildlife Division honored Sumila with a felicitation ceremony last Friday. A senior forest official remarked, "The manner in which Sumila has confronted poverty and adversity serves as an inspiration for countless individuals. Her determination exemplifies remarkable resilience."
This landmark event in Budhuram forest village highlights how individual determination, combined with community support, can overcome significant geographical and socioeconomic barriers to education in remote regions of India.
