From Selling Panipuri to Serving ISRO: Inspiring Journey of Ramdas Hemraj

 

Synopsis: Ramdas Hemraj Marbade, a young man from a humble background in Maharashtra, sold Panipuri by day and studied by night to support his family. With determination and hard work, he completed his education and ITI training, eventually securing a technician job at ISRO

Ramdas Hemraj Marbade, a young man from Khairbodi village in Tiroda Tehsil, Gondia district of Maharashtra, has achieved what many only dream of -- a job at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). His story is a powerful reminder that with determination, hard work, and self-belief, even the most challenging circumstances can be overcome.

 Ramdas grew up in a modest household. His father worked as a peon at the Dongargaon Zila Parishad School in Mohdi, Tumsar Tehsil of Bhandara district. After his father’s retirement, the family faced significant financial difficulties. To support the household, Ramdas started selling Panipuri (also known as golgappas or gupchup) during the day, going from village to village with his cart. Despite this exhausting routine, he never let go of his dream — a salaried job that could give his family stability and pride.

His education journey reflects his grit. He completed his early schooling at Ganesh High School in Gumadhavada and finished his 12th standard at C.G. Patel College, Tiroda. He later pursued a Bachelor of Arts (Private) from YCM College, Nashik. Alongside this, he enrolled in the Industrial Training Institute (ITI) in Tirora and completed a course in Pump Operator-cum-Mechanic. During his training, he gained hands-on experience in centrifugal and reciprocating machines, fluid flow systems, pressure management, cavitation, and water and gas maintenance.

In 2023, ISRO released a notification for apprentice trainee posts. Ramdas applied online and cleared the written exam held in Nagpur in 2024. He later passed the skill test, and on May 19, he received the offer letter. He now works in ISRO’s Technician Department as a Pump Operator-cum-Mechanic.

 Ramdas's journey from a street vendor to a technician at India’s premier space research organization is truly inspiring. His story highlights the power of perseverance, the importance of education, and the strength of self-belief.