40 Students Clear JEE Mains from Bihar’s Weaving Village – Patwa Toli!
In Bihar’s Gaya district lies Patwa Toli, a village once known for its skilled weavers and vibrant handloom industry. Today, it’s making headlines again—but this time, for producing engineers. On April 19, the results of the JEE Mains 2025 were declared, with over 40 students from this humble village clearing the prestigious exam.Vriksha Sansthan: The Backbone of SuccessA major contributor to this feat is Vriksha Sansthan, a free coaching centre for children from low-income families, particularly the children of weavers. Founded in 2013 by former IITians, the institute offers free test preparation, books, stationery, and holistic development support. Of the 40 successful candidates, 28 were mentored by Vriksha Sansthan.“Our goal is to ensure no child is deprived of learning due to financial constraints,”— Dugeshwar Prasad, President, Vriksha FoundationStories That InspireOne standout among the achievers is Sagar Kumar, who lost his father in early childhood and was raised amidst hardship. With guidance from Vriksha Sansthan, he secured 94.8 percentile in JEE Mains.“I want to serve the nation as an engineer. Vriksha Sansthan supported me when I had no one.”— Sagar Kumar, JEE QualifierThe successful students are now gearing up for the JEE Advanced exam on May 18. Education has become a powerful equaliser here. Despite financial challenges, the village’s youth are breaking barriers and changing their community’s future.From “Manchester of Bihar” to IIT HubPatwa Toli’s transition is no small feat. Once hailed as the “Manchester of Bihar” for its flourishing textile trade, the village is now celebrated as an academic powerhouse. Since 1991, when Jitendra Patwa became the first IIT entrant from the village, Patwa Toli has produced 15–20 IITians annually, earning it the title “IIT Factory.”Today, nearly every household in the village boasts of having at least one engineer—a reflection of the village’s unyielding dedication to education, even amidst economic challenges.Vriksha Sansthan’s support extends beyond academics. The foundation emphasizes values, ethics, and life skills, ensuring students are prepared not just for exams, but for life.“We’re not just coaching students; we’re nurturing leaders who will give back to society.”— Dugeshwar PrasadPatwa Toli is proof that access to education, community support, and determined mentorship can rewrite destinies. The village that once wove cloth now weaves dreams of a brighter, more empowered India.
