In the village of Salki Sitaguda in Kandhamal District, lives a hardworking and determined boy named Santanu Paltsing. He is 15 years old and studying in Class 6. His father works as a laborer, his mother is a housewife, and he has two sisters. Life in his village was very difficult—the schools were far away, there were no proper facilities for education, and many people around were addicted to alcohol. His family could not focus on the children’s future due to poverty.

When Santanu came to Naba Asha, his life began to change. He found a safe and nurturing environment where he could study well, live with discipline, enjoy good food, participate in daily devotions, and do regular physical exercise. Hostel life has given him the opportunity to grow, learn, and live happily with other children.

Santanu’s favorite subject is Odia, and he dreams of becoming a teacher one day. With the guidance and support at Naba Asha, Santanu is steadily moving toward achieving his dream, full of hope and determination.