Sullia: Inspiring journey of Aranthodu village girl who overcame hardships to join BSF

Sullia: Inspiring journey of Aranthodu village girl who overcame hardships to join BSF

Mangalore Today News Network

Sullia, Sep 3, 2025: Poverty, the loss of her father at a young age, and heavy family responsibilities could not deter Sushmitha, a determined young woman from Aranthodu, from fulfilling her dream of donning the uniform. She has now been selected to serve the nation in the Border Security Force (BSF), bringing pride to Sullia taluk.

Sushmitha, the elder daughter of late Nagappa Gowda M.A. and Janaki from Meladtale, Bedrupane, cleared the SSC-GD exam to secure her place in the BSF. Her parents worked as daily wage labourers to educate her and her younger sister Nishmitha. The sudden death of her father four years ago was a major setback. Then in her final year of graduation, Sushmitha was forced to shoulder the family’s responsibilities. After completing her degree, she worked in a tiles shop while also supporting her sister’s studies.

Persistence pays off

Even as she balanced work and family duties, Sushmitha pursued her passion to serve the country. She appeared for several recruitment exams—including police, military, and forest guard posts—before finally clearing the SSC-GD and securing a place in the BSF.

Life amid fear of wild elephants

Sushmitha’s native Bedrupane, a remote village about 25 km from Sullia taluk center, has just 25 families and lacks basic amenities like mobile network, stable electricity, and proper roads. Villagers live under constant threat of wild animals, particularly wild boars and elephants. Sushmitha herself has had several close encounters with elephants—once narrowly escaping by turning her two-wheeler around when an elephant blocked her path.

“I will study further”

“Getting a job requires continuous study and effort. That dedication has helped me succeed. My dream of joining the armed forces has finally come true. If given the opportunity, I aspire to rise to higher ranks in service,” said Sushmitha, expressing her resolve to continue learning and growing in her career.