In the bustling lanes of Kaligali, Cuttack, a young boy’s dream has turned into a moment of pride for an entire state. Pooshan Mohapatra, just 24 years old, has emerged as the All-India Rank 1 holder in the NEET-PG 2025 examination, scoring a phenomenal 707 out of 800 in his very first attempt.

This remarkable achievement, announced on August 19, 2025, by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS), has not only brought joy to his family but also inspired countless medical aspirants across India.

The Journey from MBBS to NEET-PG Topper

Pooshan completed his MBBS from SCB Medical College and Hospital, Odisha, one of the premier medical institutions in the state. Balancing the demands of his internship while preparing for one of the most competitive medical entrance exams in the country was no easy task. Yet, his determination never faltered.

“I was hoping for a good rank, but becoming the All-India Topper was beyond my expectation,” Pooshan humbly shared with mediapersons after the results were declared.

His preparation story reflects a focused and disciplined approach. After completing his internship in March, he began serious preparation in April. He relied on self-study, online lectures, and mock test papers, dedicating himself wholeheartedly to his goal.

Family Support: The Silent Strength

Behind every success story lies unwavering support, and for Pooshan, his family was the backbone. His father, Jaykrishna Mohapatra, runs a printing and publishing business in Cuttack, while his mother, Rachita Mohapatra, has always been his pillar of encouragement.

“We gave him complete freedom in his studies and never pressurised him for anything,” his father said proudly.

Equally significant was the role of his elder sister, Chetna, who is currently pursuing her postgraduate studies in ENT at the same medical college. Pooshan credits her as a constant source of motivation and guidance. “Her experience inspired me and helped me prepare better,” he added.

Recognition from Leaders

Pooshan’s achievement did not go unnoticed. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi personally met him and lauded his accomplishment, calling it “an inspiration for the youth of the state.”

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also congratulated him, praising his dedication and wishing him a bright future. The accolades reflect not just an individual achievement but a celebration for the state of Odisha as a whole.

The Road Ahead

When asked about his future plans, Pooshan shared that he is considering specialisation in either medicine or radiology, though he has yet to decide on the college. His advice to future aspirants was simple yet powerful:

“Prepare wholeheartedly without thinking much about the ranks.”

This mindset reflects the humility and focus that define him—not chasing glory, but striving for excellence in his chosen field.

Beyond Rankings: A Story of Inspiration

What makes Pooshan’s story extraordinary is not just the AIR-1 rank but the journey behind it. His success is a testament to the power of hard work, family support, and self-belief. For a young man from Cuttack, this achievement has transformed him into a role model for aspiring doctors everywhere.

As Odisha celebrates this proud moment, Pooshan’s story stands as a shining reminder: success isn’t just about topping an exam, it’s about resilience, discipline, and the courage to dream big.