Visually Challenged Teacher Mahes Panda Triumphs Over Odds, Clears Odisha Civil Services Exam

In a remarkable story of perseverance and determination, 32-year-old Mahes Panda, a visually impaired teacher from Odisha’s Jajpur district, has cleared the highly competitive Odisha Civil Services (OCS) examination. Securing an impressive 300th rank on his third attempt, Panda’s achievement is an inspiring testament to resilience, hard work, and the power of community support.

Born Visually Impaired, Raised in a Humble Household

Mahes Panda was born visually impaired and has lived with this challenge since birth. Growing up as the youngest of five siblings in Bada Biruhan village, Korei block, Jajpur district, he faced significant hurdles early on. His father, Laxmi Narayan, who is a farmer, single-handedly supported a family of seven, working hard to provide for his children.

“Despite the best treatment and visits to several hospitals, doctors could not restore his vision. Finally, we left it to fate,” Narayan recalled, underscoring the difficult circumstances surrounding Panda’s disability.

Academic Journey: Overcoming Barriers with Support and Determination

Despite his visual impairment and modest means, Panda’s academic journey is a powerful narrative of overcoming adversity. He completed his matriculation at the School for the Blind in Nuapada in 2009, setting a foundation for his educational pursuits.

Furthering his studies, Panda graduated from Ravenshaw University, pursued a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) at the Central University in Koraput, and completed a postgraduate degree in Odia from Utkal University. His dedication to education and learning remained unwavering throughout.

Financial Hurdles and Community Support

Financing higher education posed a major challenge for Panda after school. However, his determination was matched by the generosity of two local benefactors who stepped in to provide financial assistance. Additionally, organizations such as Yuga Nirman Vidya Parishad and Gayatri Mission in Cuttack offered sponsorships that enabled him to continue his academic journey.

This support network proved crucial in enabling Panda to overcome financial obstacles that might have otherwise hindered his dreams.

Balancing Teaching and Civil Services Preparation

Since 2016, Panda has been working as an Odia language teacher at Adarsha Vidyalaya in Kuleilo, Athagarh block of Cuttack district. Balancing a full-time teaching job while preparing for one of Odisha’s toughest examinations required immense discipline and time management.

“Days were for teaching students, nights for self-study. With technology, learning has become much easier for the visually challenged,” Panda explained, highlighting how advancements like accessible technology have empowered him and others with disabilities to study more effectively.

Success Through Persistence: Clearing the Odisha Civil Services Exam

Panda cleared the Odisha Civil Services exam on his third attempt, securing the 300th rank in the highly competitive 2023 batch. The results, announced recently, saw 398 candidates qualifying.

His success is not just a personal victory but a beacon of hope for many aspiring candidates facing physical challenges and financial constraints.

Gratitude and Future Vision

Elated by his accomplishment, Panda credited his family, friends, and supporters for their unwavering encouragement throughout his journey. He expressed a deep sense of responsibility and commitment toward serving the public.

“I will dedicate my life to the welfare of the state,” Panda affirmed, demonstrating his resolve to use his position in civil services to make a positive impact.

A Message of Hope and Inspiration

Mahes Panda’s story is an inspiring example of how determination, combined with community support and the right tools, can help overcome even the most daunting obstacles. His journey sends a powerful message to visually challenged individuals and all aspirants that disabilities need not be a barrier to success.

Through his dedication to education, persistent efforts in civil services preparation, and steadfast spirit, Panda exemplifies the true meaning of resilience.