Dikhyaa Mohanty 
14-year-old Mousumi Simalai of Paralakhemundi in the Gajapati district of Odisha has drawn national recognition for his inspirational story of perseverance and tenacity after winning the Gold Medal in Rifle Shooting at the All India Thal Sainik Camp (AITSC) 2025 in New Delhi. Mousumi, a Class IX student at Centurion Public School, became the best shooter in the NCC Junior Wing Girls category after overcoming intense competition from more than 1,200 cadets nationally. From September 2–11, 1,546 cadets from 17 NCC Directorates competed in a variety of disciplines at the esteemed camp.
Mousumi’s modest upbringing is what makes her win particularly noteworthy. She is the daughter of Manika and Balai Chand, who work as fish vendors close to Gajapati Stadium and make a living. Originating from Sanjay Gandhi Colony, Mousumi’s desire and discipline were unaffected by the family’s financial difficulties. She made her fantasies a golden reality by working tirelessly.
As she returns from Delhi, the people of Paralakhemundi and around Odisha are planning a hero’s welcome in celebration of her victory. Many people find hope in Mousumi’s narrative, which demonstrates how tenacity can transcend caste, class, and situational boundaries.
The Centurion Public School community is jubilant. Under the leadership of President Dr. Mukti Mishra, Vice President D.N. Rao, Director Durga Prasad Padhi, Registrar Anita Patra, Principal Sunita Panigrahee, and other key members including Regional Director Sambeet Patra, Vice Principal J.K. Nayak, Administrator Santosh Deo, Dean Dr. S.P. Nanda, and mentor Anumatangi Guru—the school has hailed Mousumi as the “Golden Girl of Gajapati.” As she returns to her hometown, her journey from the bustling fish markets of Paralakhemundi to the elite shooting ranges of Delhi stands as a powerful symbol: that dreams know no limits when fuelled by hard work and courage.
