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A Young Driver's Determination

Biswanath, Aug 27: On the bustling streets of Missamari, located on the Assam–Arunachal Pradesh border, a young girl in a school uniform has become a common sight driving an e-auto.

While she may appear to be just another driver to passengers, 19-year-old Rima Terongpi has emerged as a beacon of resilience and determination for her village.

Currently in her second year at Biswanath Commerce Senior Secondary School, Rima hails from a humble background.

Her father, Lakhiram Terong, is a carpenter, and her mother sells vegetables to support the family.

Faced with financial constraints and increasing household expenses, Rima took the initiative to help ease her family's burden.

“I began driving to earn some money. Managing our daily expenses is tough, so I contribute whatever I can. My mother sells vegetables, and I assist her as much as possible,” Rima expressed, her voice filled with determination.

Her daily routine is remarkable. She starts her day driving her e-auto at 8 am, often transporting schoolchildren before attending her own classes.

After parking her vehicle at school, she transitions from driver to student effortlessly. Once classes are over, she resumes her driving duties from 3 pm to 5 pm, generating essential income for her family.

Additionally, she offers monthly transport services for local students. On her return trips from town, she also picks up fresh vegetables for her mother's shop, cleverly combining her commute with family support.

Her hard work has not gone unnoticed. “Rima displays remarkable self-confidence at such a young age. She balances work and studies with great maturity and responsibility. She is a courageous girl and excels academically,” remarked one of her teachers, who takes pride in her resilience.

By managing her studies alongside her driving duties and family responsibilities, Rima has matured significantly for her age.

To her friends, she is a companion; to her parents, she is the family's pillar; and to her community, she serves as a source of inspiration.