Rourkela: Nearly 100 children from the slums of Khariar town and nearby villages in Nuapada district have access to formal education, thanks to retired Army man Nimai Charan Tandi (67), who has dedicated his life to helping kids from poor and marginalised families.Over the past several years, Nimai, a resident of Khariar town, has been creating awareness among slum dwellers and economically weaker families about educational opportunities and assisting them in securing admissions for their children in private schools under the 25% reservation quota for economically weaker sections. He also facilitates admissions to Sevashram and govt-run schools for children from villages within a 10-km radius of Khariar.“My mission is to ensure that every child gets an opportunity to study. Many poor families are unaware that their children can secure admission to private schools under the EWS quota. Education is the best way to bring these children into the mainstream and help them build a better future. I will continue this work for as long as I can,” Nimai said.Many families credit him with helping them transform the future of their children.Nimai had joined the Indian Army’s Supply Corps as a sepoy in 1977 and served at various locations across the country. During his 17-year military career, he was promoted to Lance Naik and later Naik before retiring in Oct 1994 and returning to his hometown.Inspired by his father, late Rameshwar Tandi, a social worker, he took up community service after retirement. Initially, he worked to persuade people involved in illicit liquor sales to seek alternative livelihoods. With support from the Khariar NAC, several families were rehabilitated and provided other means of livelihood.Later, moved by the living conditions of slum dwellers, Nimai turned his focus to education. He regularly visits slums such as Cheliapada, Satnanipada, Lalsahebpada and Police Pada, educating parents about their children’s right to quality education and guiding them through the admission process. He often accompanies parents to schools and coordinates with school authorities. In case of difficulties, he approaches district education officials and local administrators to ensure deserving children are not denied admission.Apart from facilitating admissions, Nimai also arranges books and educational materials.
