At 85, former soldier completes Master's degree from IGNOU, eyes PhD or law

At 85, former soldier Lal Chand Godara has completed his Master's degree from the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and is now setting his sights on pursuing a PhD or a law degree.

A resident of Sirsa in Haryana, Godara returned to his books at the age of 76 after his grandchildren's questions rekindled his desire to pursue the education he had left unfinished.

Five years later, at 81, he completed his graduation. He has now completed his Master's degree, according to his son, Dr Sahib Ram Godara.COMPLETED MASTER’S DEGREE AT 85

"My father completed his Master's in Arts programme from IGNOU. Before this, he also completed his graduation in 2023," Sahib Ram said on Sunday, as reported by PTI.

Godara said his education had remained an unfinished chapter in his life as circumstances took him elsewhere. He joined the Army before turning 20 and, after serving in the force, worked as a Yard Master in the Haryana Transport Department.GRANDCHILDREN’S QUESTIONS REIGNITED INTEREST IN STUDIES

After retiring from the job in 2002, Godara also took up sports and competed in masters athletics. He won medals at Haryana Masters Athletics competitions and other events.

Godara's interest in books was rekindled after his younger son's two children began asking him questions, his elder son said.

"My father had a keen desire for books since his youth. He also used to maintain a diary as writing always gave him a lot of satisfaction," Sahib Ram said.

Sahib Ram added that circumstances in life had taken his father elsewhere, preventing him from pursuing academics the way he wanted. His younger brother's two children later posed questions to Godara, which fuelled his desire to read books and encouraged him to resume his studies at the age of 76.NOW EYES PhD OR LAW DEGREE

Having completed his Master's degree from IGNOU, Godara is now looking ahead to pursuing either a PhD or a law degree. Godara said his journey showed that the desire to learn should not stop at any age and that education broadens one's outlook.