75-Year-Old Man Appears For Sanskrit Exam

A 75-year-old man from Himachal Pradesh, Milkhi Ram, has become an inspiration to many after appearing for a Sanskrit examination at IGNOU's study centre in Hamirpur on June 30. Ram, who hails from the Gandar area of Kangra district, is pursuing his 33rd academic degree.

He was born on February 10, 1952, and obtained his bachelor's degree from a private college in Dharamshala in 1976. Despite his increasing work and family responsibilities, Ram never abandoned his studies. By the time he retired from a Grade-I position in 2010, he had already secured 26 degrees.

Ram's academic achievements include BEd, Prabhakar, LLB, Journalism, BA in Sanskrit, and MA in Hindi, Political Science, Sociology, History, English, and Economics, among others. He credits his wife, Vidya Devi, for supporting him in his long academic journey. Devi is also a retired Grade-I officer of the Forest Department.

Ram's story conveys that success is not determined by age but by a passion for learning, discipline, and determination. Prof Sanjay Kumar, who was in charge of the Hamirpur Study Centre, said that Ram serves as an inspiration to society and stands as a living example of dedication to education.

Ram's presence at the examination hall inspired and motivated students. He said that 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.

The MA in Sanskrit programme at IGNOU is recognised as equivalent to an 'Acharya' degree. Ram was the oldest examinee at the centre. He recently underwent eye treatment to ensure that he continues his studies and exam preparation without any problems.

Ram's family, including his wife, son, and daughter-in-law, has been a constant source of inspiration for him. His son, Rakesh Kumar, is an Indian Railways Traffic Service officer under the Ministry of Railways. Ram's dedication to education is a testament to the fact that age is just a number and that learning can be a lifelong pursuit.