Ranchi: Dev Kumar Verma spent several years juggling between odd jobs. His father used to run a paan stall. During his studies, Dev took up a job as an LIC agent and later secured a government job. In 2014, a transformative journey began when he established a school for children of coal miners and underprivileged people. So far, Dev and his team has visited 17 states with the goal of establishing these free schools across the country to make the future of India brighter. 

Dev Kumar’s childhood

Dev Kumar Verma was born in Katras village of Dhanbad district. He faced numerous hardships during his childhood. Children as young as four years old had to gather coal in the early morning with sacks on their heads. Dev himself was part of this daily coal collection routine. His family's livelihood relied on his father's paan kiosk, making survival a constant challenge. This demanding way of life persisted for approximately 10 to 15 years.

Getting a job

After the nationalization of the coal mines, their family's land was also acquired, and his father secured a job in BCCL. Dev Kumar began operating the paan shop while attending a government school. He completed his class 10th education in the year 2000. Following this, he started giving tuition classes and earned between Rs 30 to 70 per session. He continued his studies while supporting his sisters' weddings, which put the family into debt. 

Their financial situation became so dire that the only way to fund his education was through tuition classes. At the age of 18, he became an LIC agent, due to which he managed to pursue his graduation and eventually completed an MBA from NIT Durgapur.

Establishing the first school

Dev Kumar secured a job with Coal India, initially being posted at the Kolkata Headquarters. However, he had a strong desire to make a difference in the lives of children who were involved in coal picking, particularly in Dhanbad. His wish came true after five years when he was transferred to Dhanbad. In 2014, he initiated a school from his ancestral home, officially registering it in 2015. 

These schools are called ‘Ekal Schools.’ Dev Kumar went on to establish a second school in his birthplace and a third school in Jamui. These schools offer essential services to children at no cost. Since his schools only provide primary education, he ensures that the children continue their studies in other institutions and covers the essential expenses.

Bringing a change

In December 2022, Dev Kumar initiated a Padyatra in 17 states across the country with the objective of establishing schools for underprivileged and impoverished children in each state. Currently, there are more than 50 Ekal Schools operating in various states. These schools are providing much-needed assistance to children who are unable to attend regular schools due to financial constraints, ensuring that they receive essential support and resources.