Udaipur, July 11: In a story that defies age and adversity, Udaipur Rural MLA Phool Singh Meena, a three-time elected representative, is setting an inspiring example in the field of education. At 67 years of age, he is currently appearing for his final-year M.A. (Political Science) exams from Janardan Rai Nagar Rajasthan Vidyapeeth University, proving that learning truly has no age limit.
From Dropping Out to Postgraduate Student
Hailing from a tribal background, Meena was forced to quit his studies at the age of 15 due to financial hardships. But decades later, motivated by his daughters’ academic journeys, he resumed his education at the age of 55, completing his Bachelor’s degree and later enrolling for a Master’s program.
His next goal? Earning a Ph.D. degree to honor his late father, who served in the Indian Army.
“I want to dedicate my doctoral degree to my father, and prove that it’s never too late to learn,” Meena shared.
Balancing Politics and Passion for Education
Despite his demanding schedule as an MLA—actively involved in public service and holding key responsibilities such as Speaker Panel Member and Chairperson of the Tribal Welfare Committee—Meena continues to pursue his academic ambitions with unwavering focus.
Notably, he is one of the most proactive legislators in Question Hour, known for consistently raising over 100 questions per session.
Champion of Girls’ Education
Inspired by his daughters, Meena has now become a beacon of inspiration for girls across his constituency. Influenced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ initiative, he launched a unique program that offers free air travel to the top-performing girls of Class 10 and 12 from every panchayat and ward in his constituency.
Recently, he personally accompanied selected girls on a flight to Jaipur, where they met Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma. The CM lauded this initiative, calling it an exemplary model that should be adopted by other public representatives.
Meena shared his satisfaction in seeing the tangible impact of his initiative:
“Every year, more girls are qualifying for the free air trip, and families are now actively encouraging daughters to pursue education.”
A Living Inspiration
Phool Singh Meena’s journey—from a school dropout to a postgraduate student and a champion for girls’ education—stands as a powerful testament to lifelong learning, determination, and the transformational power of education.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.