One tweet, 300 kilometres, and a dream kept alive

Shillong, June 22: A simple social media post by a NEET aspirant from Meghalaya’s remote Phulbari region has turned into a heartwarming story of timely governance, public support and a young student’s determination to pursue his dreams.

Raihan Hussain, a medical aspirant from West Garo Hills, was staring at a difficult reality ahead of his NEET examination. While he had secured his admit card, the challenge lay in reaching his examination centre in Shillong, nearly 300 kilometres away. For his family, already grappling with financial constraints, the cost of travel and accommodation seemed overwhelming.

“My father was worried about the expenses and whether we would be able to manage the journey and stay in Shillong,” Raihan recalled. “Many students face this problem. It’s not just my story.”

With little to lose, Raihan turned to social media and tagged Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, explaining his situation and seeking help. After posting the message, he put away his phone and returned to his studies.

What happened next took him by surprise.

By evening, his post had attracted thousands of views and messages from people willing to help. More significantly, the Meghalaya Chief Minister’s Office responded directly, assuring him that assistance would be provided.

“We will take care of whatever your needs are. Just be in contact with our team and give us your number,” the CMO replied.

“At first, I thought it was a prank,” Raihan said. “But later that night, I received a call from the Chief Minister’s Office. Everything was arranged immediately.”

With his travel and accommodation taken care of, Raihan was able to make the long journey from Phulbari to Shillong and appear for the examination without the burden of financial anxiety.

Speaking after completing his exam, an emotional Reihan described the experience as unforgettable.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment for me. I cannot express it in words. It showed me the power of people coming together. I am deeply grateful for the support I received.”

The episode has resonated widely on social media, highlighting how a single post, coupled with a prompt government response, helped ensure that financial hardship did not stand in the way of a student’s aspirations.

For Raihan, the journey to Shillong was about much more than reaching an examination centre. It was proof that sometimes, a dream survives because someone chooses to listen.

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