Odisha Youth Trudges From Tribal Village To Become ISRO Scientist

Phulbani: Hard work and determination are the key to success, and it’s no rocket science.

Meet Abhimanyu Mallick, a tribal youth from remote Simbali village in Kandhamal district, who is now posted as a scientist in the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in Hyderabad.

“My parents wanted me to continue my higher studies. But as they didn’t have enough money, I did my diploma in mechanical engineering and worked as a design engineer in a private company in Kolkata,” Abhimanyu said.

But the gritty youth never gave up on his dream to become a scientist. “I somehow managed to find time to continue my studies while working. Finally, I achieved my long-cherished dream after qualifying in a test conducted by ISRO in 2007. I am now posted as a scientist in the rocket wing of ISRO at Sriharikota in Hyderabad,” he added.

Recalling his childhood days, Abhimanyu said after completing his primary education from a village school, he had taken admission in Class VI in a high school at Ranapatuli in Khajuriapada block. “There is no fair-weather road in my village. I had to walk 5 km from my village to Kusumendi, from where there was a decent road to the high school. Despite all difficulties, I completed my high school education,” he said.

As for the future, he averred that he has no mission as such. “Whatever assignment will be given to me, I shall try my best to do it successfully,” he added.

“I am extremely happy that my son is now doing the job and maintaining his family. The entire village feels proud of his achievement,” said Abhimanyu’s elated mother.