Odisha's Mangala Muduli to become first Bonda tribe doctor after passing NEET

Bhubaneswar, Aug 29: Mangala Muduli from Malkangiri is set to make history as the first member of Odisha's Bonda tribe to become a doctor. Recently, he achieved a major milestone by clearing the NEET 2024 exam and securing a place at MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur. The Odisha ST & SC Development Department has lauded Mangala for his outstanding achievement and his entry into one of the state’s leading medical institutions.

From a young age, Mangala aspired to become a doctor, despite facing numerous challenges due to his family's difficult circumstances. After completing his schooling at Mudulipada SSD High School and pursuing his +2 science education at SSD Higher Secondary School in Baladiaguda, Mathili, Mangala succeeded in his first attempt at NEET.

His journey was not easy, especially given the lack of basic healthcare facilities and road connectivity in his village. Initially unaware of the NEET exam’s importance, Mangala relied heavily on the support of his teachers. One of his teachers, Utkal Keshari Das, not only provided guidance but also bought Mangala a mobile phone for his studies. With limited network coverage, Mangala would climb trees to access study materials online.

Das also offered Mangala accommodation and coaching in Erada, Bhadrak district. Despite falling ill due to the unfamiliarity with air conditioning, Mangala persevered, driven by his teacher’s encouragement. “He was always exceptional in academics,” Das noted. “I advised him to take the NEET exam and facilitated his coaching in Balasore, where his fees were waived.”

Mangala’s story is one of resilience and determination, reflecting his commitment to improving healthcare in his community.