They are unassuming but
what makes them stand apart from the rest is
their determination to defy odds, assert their
individuality and an impatient urge to make this
planet a better place to live in. It is in them
that the society looks for examples.
Godfrey
Phillips Bravery Awards felicitated two such
heroes of the State with gold medals at its 16th
award giving function in Hyderabad. They are
polio-affected Nabin Amanatya, a farmer of
Jhadaput village under Borigumma block in
Koraput district and Shyam Sundar Jal, running
an orphanage at Gambhariguda under Dharmagarh
block in Kalahandi district.
While Nabin is considered a
role model by his villagers today, Jal is being
hailed as messiah for hundreds of destitutes in
his area.
Nabin had always believed
that his disability had a purpose. He would not
give up so easily despite his physical
limitations. One day on the advice of
agriculture officers, he borrowed some money
and purchased a KB pump to cultivate vegetables
to make a good living. The pump had to be
operated manually.
The villagers teased him
and passed remarks when they saw him operating
the pump. Many even discouraged him but be would
not give up.
"No one believed in me
except my wife Pramilla. She kept on inspiring
and encouraging me. She worked tirelessly by
my side to show people that we are capable of
earning our daily bread and butter
respectfully,”
These days, thanks to his
grit and determination, his land grows abundant
fresh vegetables. He is leading a decent life
with the income generated from the sale of
vegetables.
Then, do people laugh at
him now? "They admire me," he gushed sporting a
broad smile on his face. Some have even begun to
emulate him.
Nabin wants to spend the prize money - Rs 50,000
- to purchase a second KB pump and bring
electric connection to his home.
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