A Humble Beginning
Bishnu Charan Nayak’s journey from a struggling student to a respected Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) officer is a tale of perseverance and determination. Hailing from Sirikoi village under Belguntha block in Ganjam district, Bishnu’s early life was marked by hardship. After failing his Class 12 exams, he left his home to work as a laborer in a thread factory in Surat, earning a meager ₹8,000 per month. Despite these challenging circumstances, Bishnu harboured a strong desire to continue his education.
The Quest for Education
Bishnu’s resolve to pursue his studies never wavered. While working to support his family, he reappeared for his Class 12 exams and subsequently completed his undergraduate (Plus III) and master’s degrees through the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). His commitment to education led him to clear the National Eligibility Test (NET), enabling him to secure a position as an Assistant Professor at a college.
Balancing Work and Studies
Juggling his duties as an Assistant Professor during the day and preparing for the Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) exams at night, Bishnu demonstrated remarkable discipline and dedication. His hard work paid off when he successfully cracked the OPSC exam on his first attempt, securing the 426th rank.
A Vision for Change
Bishnu’s remarkable transformation from a migrant worker to an OAS officer is not just a personal victory but a beacon of hope for many. He is determined to use his new position to address the issues faced by migrant laborers in Odisha. “We have a lot to do both at the societal and political level to stop migrant labor. My first and top priority will be to stop bonded labor and take steps to create job opportunities in every village so that no one has to leave for other states to work as a laborer,” he emphasized.
Inspiring a Generation
Bishnu’s success has been a source of immense pride and inspiration for his family and community. “We are all very happy. He is the first person in our family to clear civil services. With his success, he has now become a source of inspiration for many other youths in our village,” said his younger brother, Rajendra Nayak.
Bishnu Charan Nayak’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the pursuit of education. His journey from working in a thread factory to becoming an OAS officer underscores the message that no dream is too big and no obstacle insurmountable with determination and hard work. His achievements inspire not only his village but many across Odisha, proving that with grit and perseverance, anything is possible.
(With inputs from agencies)
