From Construction Sites to White Coats: Odisha’s Subham Sabar Cracks NEET, Secures MBBS Admission
In a tale of resilience and relentless determination, 19-year-old Subham Sabar from Odisha has achieved what many might have deemed impossible. Born into poverty in Mudulidhiah village under Banpur block in Khurda district, Subham has secured admission into the prestigious MKCG Medical College and Hospital after cracking the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) UG 2025.
His journey to this moment, however, wasn’t paved with ease or privilege. Until recently, Subham was working as a construction labourer in Bengaluru, trying to save money to support his family and fund his education. But despite the harsh realities of his background, Subham's determination to change the course of his life never wavered.
A Phone Call That Changed Everything
Subham was on a construction site in Bengaluru when he received a phone call from his teacher, Basudev Moharana—one that would change his life forever. The voice on the other end told him to distribute sweets, and when he asked why, his teacher told him he had cracked the NEET exam. It was a moment of disbelief and overwhelming joy for Subham.
“Recently, while working at the construction site in Bengaluru, I got a call from my teacher who asked me to distribute sweets. I was surprised and asked him about the reason. He smiled and informed me that I had cracked the NEET exams. It was like a dream come true. I could not hold my tears and returned home the next day with due permission of the contractor,” Subham shared.
Scoring a Rank Against All Odds
Subham secured an All-India Rank of 18,212 in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category, a significant feat considering his circumstances. With this rank, he earned a seat in the MBBS program at MKCG Medical College and Hospital, Berhampur—one of Odisha’s most reputable government medical colleges.
This accomplishment did not come easy. With limited resources and mounting financial pressure, Subham had little choice but to take up a labour job after his NEET exam. For three months, he worked at construction sites in Bengaluru, earning Rs 45,000—out of which he managed to save Rs 25,000 to support his medical college admission process.
“I hail from a very poor family of five. As the NEET exam was over, I decided to earn some money to support my family. I contacted a local contractor who sent me to Bengaluru. The savings I made helped me get admission to the medical college,” he said.
Early Life and the Shift in Dreams
Subham's initial ambition was to become a police officer, a dream shaped by a desire to serve and uplift. However, as he progressed through his studies, he found a deeper calling in the field of medicine. The idea of becoming a doctor gradually took root during his higher secondary education, and soon it became his driving force.
“I initially wanted to become a police officer, but started aspiring to be a doctor when I began preparing for higher studies. I am now on course to fulfil my dream of becoming a doctor and serve the people of Odisha,” he said.
A Family’s Sacrifice and Hope
Subham’s family has been the silent force behind his success. His father, Sahadeb, and mother, Rangi, have endured years of hardship to ensure their children had a shot at a better life. Subham’s success is as much a tribute to their sacrifices as it is to his hard work.
“Since childhood, he has been very laborious and meritorious. He wanted to become a doctor. His hard work guaranteed the success,” said his mother, Rangi, her voice filled with pride and relief.
She recalled how Subham grew up witnessing his family working tirelessly to make ends meet, a reality that instilled in him a strong work ethic. “He learnt how to work hard and succeeded,” she said.
Now, with their son on the threshold of becoming a doctor, the family hopes for some financial support from the government to help Subham complete his five-year MBBS course.
An Example for Aspirants Across India
Subham’s story is a powerful reminder that success is not bound by background, location, or economic status. It speaks to the potential that lies within India’s rural and underprivileged communities, waiting to be unlocked with opportunity and education.
In an education system often dominated by urban privilege and private coaching institutions, Subham's achievement is also a statement against the odds stacked against students from marginalized backgrounds. His story sends a strong message—that talent and hard work, when combined with even minimal support, can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
The Road Ahead
With admission secured, Subham now faces the challenge of navigating a demanding MBBS curriculum. But if his past is anything to go by, there is little doubt that he will rise to the occasion. His long-term goal is clear: to become a doctor and serve the people of his state, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds like himself.
As he steps into MKCG Medical College, Subham carries with him not just his dreams, but the hopes of his village, his community, and countless others who will draw strength from his journey.
Final Thoughts
Subham Sabar’s story is not just about cracking an exam—it’s about breaking barriers. It’s about what happens when aspiration meets perseverance. In a nation where access to quality education still remains a challenge for many, stories like his are beacons of hope. And now, with a stethoscope in sight instead of a shovel, Subham stands poised to write the next chapter of his incredible journey.
