Neela Madhab Rath (45) working in the Nabarangpur block as a Government servant was felicitated on the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in Bhubaneswar on December 3. He was conferred with the State award as best employee with Rs 25,000.
Wheel chair bound Neela Madhab was affected by polio when he was 5 years old. However, his perseverance and hard work stood him in good stead. He was extremely sharp in his studies. After HSC from Papadahandi High School, he completed +2 and +3 in Economics honours from Nabarangpur College. He was also a champion for three years in debate and essay competitions in the college. He was literary Secretary of the college student union.
He was not sure what lay in store for him ahead. In 1993, he chose to do a computer course in Shanta Memorial Rehabilitation Centre, (SMRC) Bhubaneswar. After successful completion, he started working at the St Xaviers School of Satya Nagar in Bhubaneswar. He was the first computer professional with DTP knowledge of the district.
With a goal to become a self-employed person, he started working at Desktop Publishing (DTP) Center of Utkalika Nabarangpur. In the year 1999 he was selected for post of Junior Clerk in Government service.
He always believes that PWDs should work hard to become self-reliant instead of seeking sympathy from others. “People with disabilities face a lot of difficulties in their life. Just don’t let those obstacles get in your way and whenever there is a challenge just keep on pushing through and persevering,” said Neela Madhab.