Officer opens free study centre at his Jalgaon village home for students chasing govt jobs
The study centre in Tade village, where students learn. Pics/By Special Arrangement
Preparing for competitive examinations demands dedication, discipline, and a peaceful environment, along with access to proper study materials. Yet, thousands of students in India’s rural areas lack such basic facilities. Many cannot afford books or even reliable electricity.
Recognising this struggle, Rajesh Prabhakar Patil, IAS (2005 batch, Odisha cadre), an award-winning administrator and writer, has set up a community study centre at his ancestral home in Tade village, Erandol taluka, Jalgaon district. Patil, who currently serves as secretary, Department of Cooperation, Government of Odisha, was earlier posted as joint managing director, CIDCO, and municipal commissioner, Pimpri Chinchwad.
“A peaceful space, proper seating, good ventilation, and access to books are essential for exam preparation,” Patil told mid-day. “Many rural students struggle for these basic needs, which are easily available in cities.”
Located along the Jalgaon-Dhule route, Tade is about 12 km from Erandol. Born into a poor farming family, Patil once sold bread and vegetables to help his parents, who worked as daily-wage labourers. Despite the hardships, he studied relentlessly and went on to join the IAS — a journey he later chronicled in his autobiography, Maa, I’ve Become a Collector!
“After my success, I realised my village had seen little educational progress. Hardly anyone could shine,” he said. “So, I decided to create a space where students could dream bigger. I developed a separate floor in my house into a fully equipped study centre with proper infrastructure and books.” He added, “My parents lived on the first floor when we visited the village, so I built a separate entrance for students. I guide them for competitive exams over the phone or whenever I visit.”
In just six months, around 17 students have begun using the centre. Bhushan Sonawane, one of the aspirants preparing for the police recruitment exam, said, “I completed my Bachelor’s in Arts and used to travel 15 km for coaching. It was tiring and expensive. This open study centre has saved both time and money — now we can study longer and eat home-cooked food.”
Rajesh Prabhakar Patil, IAS (2005 batch, Odisha cadre)
Students preparing for SSC, Talathi, and other government exams are also benefiting from the facility. “This is not just four walls — it’s a platform that gives wings to the dreams of rural youth,” Patil said.
Alongside the study centre, Patil has also initiated community development projects in Tade, including Mission 500 Crore Water Storage, launched with IRS officer Dr Ujwal Kumar Chavan, aimed at making the region water-sufficient through collective efforts and sustainable planning.
A recipient of both the President’s Award and the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration, Patil continues to prove his belief that education is the strongest tool to transform society — starting right at home.
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
