In a remarkable achievement that highlights the growing technological prowess of India's rural youth, Pratham Chetan Dand, a Class XII student from Bhavnagar, has been crowned the National Rural IT Quiz Champion 2025 at the prestigious Bengaluru Tech Summit.
From Village Classrooms to National Glory
The young champion from Shri MJCK Ratnashram in Bhavnagar demonstrated exceptional knowledge in information technology to secure the national title on Thursday. Pratham clinched a prize of Rs 1 lakh for his outstanding performance, marking a significant milestone in his academic journey.
His path to national recognition began earlier when he emerged victorious in the Gujarat state finale held on October 14 at Kadi Sarva Vishwavidyalaya (KSV) in Gandhinagar. This state-level triumph earned him the title of Gujarat Rural IT Champion and qualified him to represent his state at the national competition.
Massive Participation Reflects Growing IT Awareness
The National Rural IT Quiz, conceptualized by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), was conducted in collaboration with the Department of Electronics, IT and BT, Government of Karnataka and received support from GUJCOST (Gujarat Council on Science and Technology).
The initiative aims to boost Information Technology awareness among students from rural and semi-urban backgrounds across India. Gujarat has consistently shown strong participation in this program, reflecting the state's commitment to technological education.
Earlier this year, GUJCOST successfully organized the Gujarat State Rural IT Quiz for students from Classes VIII to XII. The program witnessed massive engagement with 1,143 schools participating from across the state. At the district level competitions, 12,625 students showcased their IT knowledge, while 500 district toppers competed in the state-level finale held in Gandhinagar.
Gujarat's STI Ecosystem Creating Champions
Dr. Narottam Sahoo, Advisor to Gujarat Council on Science and Technology (GUJCOST), emphasized the significance of Pratham's achievement. "Representing Gujarat on the national platform, Pratham's progression from village classrooms to the country's premier IT quiz championship reflects the impact of sustained initiatives undertaken by GUJCOST", he stated.
Dr. Sahoo further added that Pratham's national achievement demonstrates the growing effectiveness of Gujarat's Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) initiatives and the state's dedication to providing equitable opportunities for young learners. His success serves as an inspiring benchmark for students aspiring to excel in science and technology fields.
The advisor noted that Pratham's journey from village classrooms to the national stage proves that talent flourishes when opportunities reach every corner of society. His accomplishment highlights the determined spirit of Gujarat's young learners and the strengthening STI ecosystem in the state.
The enthusiastic participation from 500 selected district toppers across Gujarat in the state-level competition indicates the rising curiosity and awareness about information technology in rural and semi-urban regions. This growing interest sets the stage for more technological innovations and achievements from India's heartland.
