At 85, former soldier completes master's degree, eyes PhD

Lal Chand Godara, who served in the Indian Army and later worked with the Haryana Transport Department, has become an inspiration to many by completing his master's degree at an advanced age. Godara, now 85, returned to formal education at 76 and achieved his bachelor's degree at 81 before recently obtaining his master's qualification from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU).

Despite spending decades in military and public service, Godara remained committed to his educational aspirations and chose to pursue distance learning to balance his studies with personal commitments. His determination saw him complete his undergraduate studies across five years, followed by his postgraduate qualification.

With his master's degree now in hand, the septuagenarian is contemplating his next academic milestone. Godara is considering pursuing either a doctorate degree or law studies, indicating his intention to continue his intellectual pursuits regardless of age. His journey challenges conventional notions about the limits of lifelong learning and demonstrates the feasibility of acquiring higher education credentials later in life.

Godara's accomplishment has garnered attention in Sirsa, where residents view his perseverance as a testament to the adage that learning knows no age limit. His case exemplifies how retired professionals can productively utilize their time through structured education programmes, particularly those designed for distance learners.