A couple in Rajasthan’s Dausa district is offering free coaching, similar to Bihar’s Super 30 classes, to help underprivileged students clear competitive exams.

As the country celebrates Teachers’ Day on Tuesday, the ‘Nishulk Guidance Classes’, run for the past six years by Vinod Meena (41) and his wife Seema (39) to support the poor and deprived youths of tribal areas in chasing their dreams, is a true tribute to the noble profession.

The couple, both of whom are government school teachers, selects 60 students after a screening process and coaches them to crack exams for government jobs. They say they spend Rs 20,000 each month from their salary to pay for the rent of the premises and stationery.

“I appeared in the IAS interview thrice but could not crack it. It was after this that I decided to share my knowledge with the youths who are not able to afford coaching classes,” says Vinod.

His wife says they were dogged by discouragement at every step. “But, every negative statement motivated us. We have not registered the coaching classes and we do not aim to register it as an NGO.” Their example has inspired others teachers to contribute to their cause.“I teach students for an hour everyday and it gives me immense satisfaction. It fills me with energy in giving back to the society,” a volunteer faculty, Chandra Prakash Sharma, says.

Man Mohan, who teaches general knowledge to the aspirants also expressed similar sentiments.“Our classes last for four hours except on Sunday. So far, over 300 students from our classes have secured government jobs,” says Meena.

The students who made the cut are filled with gratitude for the couple’s support.Nishu Singh who got selected as a government teacher says, “The coaching tips and their simple way of teaching helped in getting the job, which could not have been possible without their help and support.”

Posted as a soldier in Indian Army, Ajit Singh Gurjar said, “I, like several others in tribal areas, could not afford coaching classes. The efforts of the couple have made my life. It is a true service to the humanity.”