Beating all the odds, a village girl gets appointed as a CISF constable

back

Beating all the odds, a village girl gets appointed as a CISF constable

30 July 2021

For a single parent, who could hardly meet the daily needs of his family, the news of his daughter being selected in the Central Industrial Security Forces (CISF) sparked celebrations in the village. A young Yejjipurapu Rama from Pogiri village of Rajam Mandal in Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh, scripted history upon being selected as a Constable during recruitment conducted by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) as she is the first-generation graduate from her family.

But Rama's achievement was not a cakewalk. Ever since she lost her mother and younger brother in her childhood, Rama had only her father and grandmother to look after her. As a little girl, Rama wanted to improve the lives of her family. Though her father is a daily-wage labour and could earn just enough to meet their daily needs, but that never stopped him to let his daughter pursue a career of her choice. He encouraged her to complete her studies and become successful enough to have a secure future.

But for Rama, it was very difficult to choose a career option due to lack of proper guidance. Despite facing several financial hurdles and yet completing her graduation she did not know how to proceed further as a working professional. However, Rama had a burning desire to make something of her life. She was diligent in her pursuit.

It was in 2018 when Rama came to know about Pratibha Library, also known as Counselling Centre run by GMR's CSR wing - GMR Varalakshmi Foundation (GMRVF), at Rajam through one of her friends. She approached the library, interacted with the counsellor and enrolled as a member at the centre. Every day, Rama cycled 7 kilometres from her village and spent 6-7 hours a day at the library. She appeared for all the model tests conducted at the centre.

Initially, Rama could not get through the competitive tests. She was deeply distressed by the series of unsuccessful attempts in various competitive examinations. At times, achieving goals seemed a far-fetched dream to her. The Pratibha team supported and encouraged her to continue her efforts. The counsellor at Pratibha oriented Rama on various career options suitable for her. They conducted coaching classes, including digital classes on various subjects and made necessary study material available for her. The centre also conducted a good number of model tests at regular intervals that helped her march towards her goal.

It took 30 months of her hard work and perseverance, when finally in February 2021 Rama achieved what she had dreamed of. She is currently undergoing the basic induction training program of CISF Constables. Rama is extremely happy to see her proud father and believes that one can achieve anything if they put their minds to it. She attributes her success to her family and Pratibha Library for their unshakeable support.