Born into a poor family in Rourkela, Odisha, Sanjita Mohapatra’s life is a testament to perseverance and hard work. Today, she stands as the chief executive officer of Amravati Zilla Parishad in Maharashtra, a role in which she is transforming education and health systems in the district. But her journey to this prestigious position is nothing short of extraordinary.
A Difficult Beginning
Mohapatra’s birth was met with disappointment. Her mother had hoped for a son after already having a daughter, and her arrival brought little joy to the family. The 34-year-old officer recalls how her parents had considered abandoning her, but her elder sister’s insistence ultimately saved her.
Growing up in poverty, Mohapatra faced an uphill battle. “My childhood was fraught with obstacles due to our financial condition,” she said during a recent press conference. Education became her sanctuary, supported by scholarships, dedicated teachers, and social organizations that helped her continue her studies.
Breaking Barriers with Education
With an unrelenting focus on education, Mohapatra earned a degree in mechanical engineering. Her hard work landed her a position as an assistant manager at the Steel Authority of India, a milestone that allowed her to uplift her family. She even helped her parents build a house in their village, a gesture that symbolized her enduring commitment to her roots.
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Her parents, who once doubted her worth, are now her proudest supporters.
Achieving a Childhood Dream
Becoming an IAS officer was a dream Mohapatra nurtured since childhood. It was not an easy path—she cleared the UPSC examination on her fifth attempt in 2019, thanks to her determination and the unwavering support of her husband. Her achievement is a reminder that persistence often leads to success, even in the face of repeated failure.
A Vision for Empowerment
As CEO of Amravati Zilla Parishad, Mohapatra is on a mission to bring meaningful change. Her focus areas include:
- Women Empowerment: Mohapatra actively supports self-help groups (SHGs) by helping them create niche markets for their products. She oversees everything from branding and packaging to product launches, ensuring these women achieve financial independence.
- Improving Education: She is dedicated to enhancing the quality of education in Zilla Parishad schools, aiming to provide better opportunities for children from marginalized communities.
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A Role Model for Women Everywhere
Sanjita Mohapatra’s story is more than a tale of personal success. It is a beacon of hope for countless women and girls who face societal and economic barriers. From being an unwanted girl child to becoming a celebrated IAS officer, her life is a powerful narrative of resilience, determination, and the transformative power of education.
As she continues to create lasting change in Amravati, Mohapatra stands as a role model, inspiring others to dream big and defy the odds.