Biplab Kumar Samal, a resident of Ghadiamal village in Kendrapada district, Odisha, defied poverty to crack the NEET examination. His father works as a migrant laborer in a textile mill in Gujarat, and the family struggled to arrange the admission fee for medical studies. Samal, who has two sisters, said, "My father's salary gets exhausted by the end of the month. Funding my education was a challenge for my family." He had given up hope of arranging approximately Rs 1.2 lakh per year, covering admission, hostel, food, and miscellaneous expenses.
Just when all seemed lost, a businessman stepped forward to fund his education through Atut Bandhan, a non-profit organization. The group learned of Samal's situation and connected him with the donor. Today, Samal is an intern at Fakir Mohan Medical College and Hospital in Balasore, having completed his MBBS course.
How Atut Bandhan Works
Samal's story is one of many. Atut Bandhan, founded by Pritish Basa, has been quietly transforming lives by supporting economically disadvantaged students in becoming doctors. What began with four students in 2022 has now expanded to 300 students in just four years, with 67 having cleared MBBS.
Basa shared the inspiration behind the initiative: "On May 15, 2022, I decided to sponsor the study of an MBBS student from a humble background." That date marked the passing of his 38-year-old son, who suffered from seizures. In his memory, Basa chose to sponsor a medical student's education. While speaking with a student at MKCG Medical College in Berhampur, the student suggested Basa sponsor another who was even poorer. "This opened my eyes, and I decided to connect more people to support these students," Basa added.
Expanding the Network
Atut Bandhan now has around 160 members who also serve as donors. Each year, the group adds more donors or mentors. Members assist students in connecting with mentors. Teachers at medical colleges, who are aware of the initiative, inform students from financially weak backgrounds about Atut Bandhan. Seniors also pass the word to their juniors.
Once a student in need is identified, Atut Bandhan members conduct a thorough inquiry, including a home visit, to verify financial conditions. If satisfied, they match the student with a mentor who provides financial support.
On Sunday, students and donors gathered for a get-together where many shared their stories. Basa noted, "Many people are contacting us to take care of MBBS students' education expenses. Mentors stay connected with students like guardians. A strong bond has developed; mentors call the students their sons and daughters."
