There is no short cut to success, writes Silchar MP Dr. Rajdeep Roy

June 10: Often we hear that due to financial constraints or due to a plethora of disadvantages, many children are unable to continue their academic pursuits. While this is true, but the fact remains that, “Where there is a will, there is a way.” There are innumerable instances all around us where students defeated numerous constraints and came out with flying colours in life.

Well, many may regard this phenomenon as an exception, but the fact of the matter remains that those who could win over the constraints of life have indeed carved a niche for themselves, leaving behind critics pondering over their self-determination and zeal to achieve success. I was indeed very impressed as an individual when I came to know that two boys from Public Higher Secondary School, Silchar did exceptionally well in the HSLC Examination, 2020 conducted by SEBA, the results for which was declared on 6 May, 2020.

When on enquiry, I learnt that these two boys achieved success in HSLC by overcoming extreme poverty, I made up my mind to meet these two students and interact with them. What instantly came across my mind was that such achievements need to be highlighted so that these success stories become exemplary for the society. So I called them on Wednesday and felicitated these two jewels. It was then that I interacted with them to know their success stories.

Rahul Biswas and Dipankar Sutradhar are the two jewels who indeed made us feel proud. Rahul Biswas lost his father sometimes ago when he was much young. At a tender age, he was burdened to take care of his family of 4 members. He then started to deliver newspapers to support his family. The zeal for studies never evaporated from the mind of Rahul even if he felt too tired selling newspaper. After a hectic morning schedule of newspaper distribution, Rahul attended classes regularly at Public HS School. A soft spoken bright boy, Rahul was loved by all his teachers in the school. Rahul Biswas scored 74 percent marks in HSLC with two letters in English and IT. His aim in life is to become a teacher. As he was narrating me his ambition in life, I became speechless. His bright eyes speaks volume of his self-confidence.

Dipankar Sutradhar also a student of Public HS School, Silchar sells flower from door-to-door in the morning. Dipankar’s father is a small time carpenter and somehow earns two-square meal a day. Dipankar used to contribute financially to his family by selling flowers at the rate of Rs.10 per packet. He too like Rahul used to regularly attend classes and was also exceptionally good in extra-curricular activities. For any important activity in the school, the teachers used to call him and give him the responsibility. Dipankar scored 79 percent in HSLC with 2 letters in Mathematics and IT. Dipankar wants to study commerce and and become an entrepreneur.

I was indeed so touched by their real-life stories that it seemed like a fable to me. My purpose of felicitating them is to put the record straight that there is no short cut to success ! Sincerity and hard work always pays off, however, trying the circumstances may be ! I take this opportunity to thank the Principal and teachers of Silchar Public Higher Secondary School for guiding these two boys become achievers. I would only wish that these two gems go on with their bright performances in their future strides. They just need to keep their focus on target. For all others, I would wish that, never feel defeated by constrains, rather turn adversities into an opportunity to strive well. May the Almighty bless Dipankar and Rahul in their future strides.

*(Dr. Rajdeep Roy, an eminent surgeon is BJP MP from Silchar constituency)