Situated close to the BHEL locality in Patancheru, Hyderabad, Zilla Parishad High School is a well-known structure around here. It’s here that we meet an Akshaya Patra beneficiary, Monica Devi.

Monica has toiled hard to be a topper in her class despite the obstacles she has faced. This 15-year-old girl was just seven years old when her father parted ways with the family, leaving Monica, her brother and mother. But this loss has not broken Monica's spirit. Monica is amongst the top performers in her class and is a class favourite.

Monica’s family comes from humble beginnings. Her mother works as a housekeeper at a multinational company. Her grandmother works in a temple. Monica is grateful to her grandmother for raising her. It was her grandmother who looked after her during the tough times while the mother has laboured hard to make ends meet. Her brother is pursuing an industrial training course at an institute in Hyderabad. "I am very close to my family. They are everything to me. They have stood by me at all times," says a content Monica. 

Monica's teacher heaps praises on her for working so hard. So ambitious she is, that even after school, she goes for tuitions on every school day. "I study up till 10 pm and then I return home to eat. During my free time, I prefer reading. It helps me stay focused," says Monica.

Monica is fond of the Akshaya Patra meals and is pleased that Akshaya Patra is providing meals to so many students at her school. She is particularly fond of the aloo (potato) and brinjal (eggplant) curry provided by Akshaya Patra. "Just before lunch, my friends and I can’t stop thinking about the meal," said Monica.

This Akshaya Patra Beneficiary is a true victor in many aspects of life. Despite the obstacles, Monica has paved a way for herself while being grateful to those who have given her constant support. Monica aspires to become a teacher and work towards the betterment of society. Her lively character is truly a sign of her achievements. We wish her more success in the future.