Odisha’s Visually Impaired Teacher Mahesh Panda Clears Civil Services Exam, Secures 300th Rank

In an inspiring story of grit and perseverance, 32-year-old visually impaired teacher Mahesh Panda from Jajpur, Odisha, has successfully cleared the Odisha Civil Services (OCS) Examination 2023, securing the 300th rank on his third attempt.

A resident of Bada Biruhan village in Korei block, Panda has battled lifelong visual impairment and financial struggles. Despite these challenges, he worked as an Odia teacher at Adarsha Vidyalaya in Kuleilo, Cuttack district’s Athagarh block, since 2016, while simultaneously preparing for the competitive exam.

Journey From Blind School to Civil Services

Born into a humble farming family as the youngest of five siblings, Panda’s journey was marked by hardships. His parents sought multiple medical consultations for his eyesight, but his vision could not be restored. With limited resources, his education continued through family and community support.

He completed his matriculation in 2009 from the School for the Blind in Nuapada, later graduating from Ravenshaw University. He pursued a B.Ed from Central University, Koraput, and a post-graduate degree in Odia from Utkal University.

Panda credited organisations such as Yuga Nirman Vidya Parishad and Gayatri Mission, Cuttack, for sponsoring his higher studies. Balancing teaching duties with exam preparation, he relied heavily on assistive technology. “With technology, learning has become much easier for the visually challenged,” Panda said.

Looking Ahead

Panda expressed gratitude to his family, friends, and well-wishers for their constant support. He now hopes to serve the people of Odisha through his role in the state administration.

The Odisha Civil Services Exam 2023 results were declared on Friday, with 398 candidates qualifying.