From Street Vendor to National Honoree: The Inspiring Journey of Surekha Mallick

A Remarkable Transformation

Sonepur: Surekha Mallick's journey from selling bangles on the streets of Binika in Subarnapur district to being honored at Rashtrapati Bhawan is a testament to her incredible resilience and determination. Life posed numerous challenges for her, especially with her husband suffering from a rare respiratory condition, leaving her to manage both caregiving and the family's finances. Residing in a small kutcha house, she faced the daunting task of raising her children with limited resources, relying heavily on her income from selling bangles.

A significant change occurred in 2019 when she benefited from the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban). This financial support enabled her to construct a modest pucca house, providing a room for her ailing husband and a safe space for her children. Although she lost her husband earlier this year, the house remains a symbol of security and strength for her family.

Her remarkable story caught the attention of the Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA), leading to her selection to represent Odisha at the 79th Independence Day celebrations at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Accompanied by her son Alok, she was facilitated by officials from the Odisha Urban Housing Mission (OUHM) for her visit to New Delhi, where she also attended the prestigious At Home Reception hosted by the President on August 15.

With heartfelt emotion, Mallick expressed, “This honor is not just mine; it belongs to every family that has found dignity and courage through homeownership. I am profoundly thankful to the Prime Minister for PMAY (Urban), which has provided us with more than just shelter; it has given us hope.” Dr. Krushna Chandra Mohapatra, the State Housing & Urban Development Minister, praised her story as a source of inspiration. He stated, “Surekha Mallick’s life illustrates how a home can change lives. Her presence at Rashtrapati Bhawan is a point of pride for Odisha and exemplifies the positive impact of PMAY (Urban). The State Government is dedicated to ensuring that every deserving family has a roof over their heads and a foundation for a brighter future.” From the dusty streets of Binika to the prestigious lawns of Rashtrapati Bhawan, Surekha Mallick’s success is not only a personal triumph but also a source of pride for Odisha and an inspiration for all of India.