Bhopal

In an unusual departure from official protocol, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Monday rode an electric scooter through the narrow lanes of Bhopal's Bhim Nagar slum to personally congratulate Chandni Vishwakarma, the state's Class 12 board topper.

The chief minister visited the modest home of Chandni, whose remarkable academic achievement had transformed the locality into a centre of celebration.

Daughter of furniture worker tops state

Chandni, daughter of a furniture craftsman, secured the top rank in the Madhya Pradesh Board of Secondary Education (MPBSE) Class 12 examinations, scoring an impressive 98.8 per cent marks.

Inside the small house, emotions ran high as Yadav interacted with Chandni and her family, listening to their story of perseverance and congratulating them on the achievement.

Chandni's mother, Vimla Vishwakarma, became emotional as neighbours gathered to witness the moment of pride.

"I want to join the Army"

During the interaction, the chief minister asked Chandni about her future plans.

"I want to join the Army," she replied without hesitation.

Speaking to reporters later, Chandni elaborated on her dream.

"I told him that I want to serve my country by becoming a lieutenant."

Recognising her determination, Yadav encouraged her ambitions.

"He gave his blessings so that I may achieve my goal," Chandni said.

An inspiration for students

Reflecting on the visit, Yadav described Chandni's success as a powerful example for young people across the state.

"Despite difficult circumstances, Chandni's achievement through hard work, dedication and determination is an inspiration for lakhs of students in the state," he said.

The chief minister spent time chatting with the family before posing for a smiling selfie with them — a gesture that delighted both Chandni and local residents.

Electric scooter sends sustainability message

Yadav also highlighted the symbolic significance of arriving on an electric scooter.

He said he thoroughly enjoyed the ride and noted that using electric vehicles during official engagements helps promote environmental responsibility.

According to the chief minister, choosing EVs underscores the importance of:

• Conserving fuel,
• Reducing dependence on conventional energy sources, and
• Encouraging citizens to adopt cleaner modes of transport.

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For Chandni and her family, however, the day was about much more than symbolism — it marked national recognition of a young woman's extraordinary achievement forged through resilience, discipline and ambition.