Milkhi Ram, a 75-year-old resident of Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district, has set an inspiring example by appearing for a Sanskrit examination at Indira Gandhi National Open University's study centre in Hamirpur on June 30, despite already holding 32 academic degrees.
Life of Dedication to Learning
Born on February 10, 1952, Ram began his career in the Forest Department in 1972 and earned his bachelor's degree from a private college in Dharamshala in 1976. Despite increasing work and family responsibilities, he never abandoned his studies. By the time he retired from a Grade-I position in 2010, he had already secured 26 degrees. The number has now risen to 32.
His academic achievements include a BEd, Prabhakar, LLB, Journalism (JMC), BA in Sanskrit, MA in Hindi, Political Science, Sociology, History, English, and Economics, MBA, MPhil, and a PhD in Hindi.
Inspiration for Young People
Ram said, "Young people should prioritise education as knowledge is an asset that can never be taken away. Education is the most powerful medium for the development of both society and an individual." He credited his wife, Vidya Devi, a retired Grade-I officer of the Forest Department, for supporting his academic journey. Their son, Rakesh Kumar, is an Indian Railways Traffic Service officer. "The support of my family, especially my wife, son, and daughter-in-law, has constantly inspired me to move forward," he added.
Ram recently underwent eye treatment to ensure he can continue studying and preparing for exams without problems.
Recognition at Exam Centre
The MA in Sanskrit programme at IGNOU is recognised as equivalent to an 'Acharya' degree. Ram was the oldest examinee at the centre. Prof Sanjay Kumar, in charge of the Hamirpur Study Centre, said, "At a time when many young people drop out of their studies due to minor challenges, Ram serves as an inspiration to society and stands as a living example of dedication to education."
