“Against All Odds: Two Barak Valley Students Triumph Over Hardship to Shine in HSLC Results”

Nothing can surpass hard work and dedication, especially when it comes to the Class 10 Board Examination, which marks the first step into the competitive world. The day of HSLC results is always a celebration, with students achieving state ranks, highest marks, distinctions, and the pure joy of passing the exam, signaling the commencement of their journey into higher education. Yet, behind these triumphs lie individual battles and challenges, turning the rat race into a test of perseverance, often including the battle against poverty.

This is exemplified in the story of two students from Krishnadhan Barman Janaki Roy Memorial High School in Thaligram, Cachar. Situated amidst the tea garden community, most students either come from this community or work as daily-wage laborers in nearby stone quarries along the banks of the Madhura River.

Sanjoy Das’ day begins with assisting his mother in the stone quarry, collecting and sorting stones before rushing to school. After classes, he returns to the quarry to relieve his mother, ensuring essential chores are completed at home. Despite adversity, he pursued his education, appearing in the recent matriculation exam and excelling.

Tragedy struck when his father, Jibraj Das, passed away the day after Sanjoy’s first exam paper. Shattered, but resilient, Sanjoy’s mother, Sharanraj Das, became his unwavering support, encouraging him to continue his exams. Despite mourning, Sanjoy persevered, supported by understanding teachers who accommodated his needs during exams. His outstanding achievement—a total mark of 494 out of 500, with letter marks in 5 out of 6 subjects—stands as a testament to his resilience.

Similarly, Sumanta Das, another student from the same school, secured 84% marks, despite working in the same stone quarry alongside Sanjoy. Both hailing from Deshabandhu Nagar in Thaligram, their sole income source is the quarry.

The head teacher praised their dedication, highlighting their constant pursuit of education amidst hardship. Despite challenges, the school strives to support students, inspired by their resilience. Sanjoy and Sumanta, epitomizing prodigious dedication, carry books even while assisting their parents, earning admiration from peers, teachers, and the community alike.

Their success serves as a beacon of hope, proving that hard work and dedication indeed yield fruitful rewards, regardless of the obstacles faced.