Laboured in brick kilns, tribal boy from Maoist-hit Gadchiroli secures spot at IIT, Gandhinagar

Nagpur: In a remote tribal hamlet nestled in Maoist-hit Gadchiroli district, a remarkable tale of perseverance is emerging. Amar Mamita Ravindra Parchake from Wagdara village, secured admission to the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Gandhinagar, where he will pursue a master's programme in ‘society and culture — a specialised course offered by select elite institutions in India.

For the 24-year-old, who endured the tragic loss of his mother, who was burnt alive by his father, and subsequently raised by grandparents in modest circumstances, the achievement transcends academic success. His father, currently out on bail, served time in Nagpur jail for his mother's murder. "I have laboured as a construction worker at brick kilns in Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, for survival," said Amar, who embodies triumph over personal anguish, scarce resources, and rural India's stark digital divide.

Amar completed his schooling at Yashodhara Vidyalaya in Chamorshi, before earning his bachelor's in arts from Dr Ambedkar College in Nagpur. He subsequently pursued his postgraduate degree in social work from Matru Sewa Sangh Institute of Social Work in the city. His distinction lies not merely in academic credentials, but in his audacious aspiration to excel in the most competitive academic sphere.

"Securing admission to IIT represents an extraordinary opportunity. With limited seats and over 300 candidates interviewed post-entrance examinations, my achievement extends beyond personal development to strengthen educational foundations for tribal and rural students," said Amar. "We require additional platforms, where students like me can access mentorship and higher education guidance."

The ‘society and culture' programme at IIT-Gandhinagar integrates social sciences, humanities, law, and arts — a comprehensive approach preparing scholars for research, policy making, and community engagement. The rigorous selection process encompasses multiple written assessments and interviews.

For Amar, who cultivated awareness on social inequities, the course provides ideal groundwork. He envisions pursuing a PhD in the subject to facilitate development of tribals. "I wish to assist my people in elevating their living standards," he affirms.

His achievement resonates as an inspiration throughout Gadchiroli, traditionally associated with Naxalism, underdevelopment and malaria deaths. "This transcends personal success and demonstrates to every child in remote India that aspirations are achievable," said a local mentor.

Amar acknowledges mentors like Bodhi Ramteke, Vishal Rathod and others who guided his journey. His future focus lies in reciprocating this support. "We must address the knowledge gap preventing rural and tribal students from accessing premier institutions. I shall continue working towards facilitating this access for others."