Ariful Islam / Guwahati

Bishu Limbu of Tinsukia district, Assam, studied in the light of a kerosene lamp and yet cracked the NEET – qualifying test for entrance to India’s Medical Colleges.

Bishu is the son of Fauj Limbu, a marginal farmer who grows crops just for subsistence. He has less than one bigha of agricultural land on which he grows vegetables that he sells in the market to make both ends meet.

His mother, Om Kumari Limbu, works in the paddy fields and sometimes as a day labourer in nearby tea plantations. The family still lives in a leaf-roofed raw house without electricity or a regular mobile network.

Although financial difficulties were their daily companion, with the generous support of his family and his determination, Bishu kept his eyes on his dreams. Bishu dreamed of becoming a doctor. 

As there was poor internet access in his area, Bishu often walked to nearby streets to collect slow-speed networks and download reading materials. He received a scholarship from a private institution in Digboi that helped him finish his course of Grade 11 and 12 in Senior Secondary School.

When the NEET UG 2026 results were announced, Bisu scored 610 out of 720 marks.

"We don't have an electricity connection because we can't pay the bills regularly. How will we pay his college fees now? Our son dreamed of becoming a doctor without regular electricity or internet at home, and our greatest satisfaction is that he is happy," Om Kumari told reporters.

He said the family did not realise how big the test was until the results came out. "Only Bisu knows the importance of this success. We didn't even know what an experiment this was," he added.

Bishu started his education at Rajnagar Baidyanath Primary School and later attended Tribal High School in Katetong, 3 km from his village, before moving to Digboi. Despite receiving a scholarship, he had to rely on relatives’ support for rent and other necessities.

"After matriculation, my education was free. However, I had to live in a rented house. My parents did not have enough money to cover my daily expenses regularly.

He hopes to enrol in Guwahati Medical College, Assam Medical College or AIIMS-Guwahati. "I will try to get a seat in AIIMS-Guwahati," he said.

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In today's modern age where success is often equated with better facilities and resources, Bisu's struggling journey is a great lesson for everyone. Bisu is a shining example that even the biggest challenges can be overcome with confidence, discipline and patience..