The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is often associated with young students aiming for careers in medicine, but Jay Kishore Pradhan from Odisha has proven that age is no barrier to achieving one’s dreams. At 64, this retired State Bank of India (SBI) deputy manager cracked the NEET exam, inspiring millions with his story of determination.
Pradhan’s journey defies the stereotype that learning becomes difficult with age. After serving 40 years at SBI, he chose to pursue his lifelong dream of becoming a doctor. Instead of enjoying a relaxed retirement, he enrolled in an online coaching program to prepare for NEET, dedicating himself to mastering the complex syllabus while balancing family life.
His ambition to become a doctor was reignited when his twin daughters began preparing for the same exam. Although he had once attempted the medical entrance test after completing his intermediate exams, Pradhan was unable to qualify at the time. However, a 2019 Supreme Court ruling removing the upper age limit for NEET candidates opened the door for him to try again.
In 2020, with focused determination, Pradhan qualified for NEET and secured admission at Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR). His story is a testament to the belief that age is just a number and serves as an inspiration to anyone pursuing their dreams, no matter the stage of life.
