Stories
85-Year-Old Ex-Soldier Earns MA, Eyes PhD or Law Degree

N
News18•20-09-2026, 14:15
85-Year-Old Ex-Soldier Earns MA, Eyes PhD or Law Degree
- •Lal Chand Godara, an 85-year-old former soldier from Sirsa, Haryana, completed his Master's degree from IGNOU.
- •He plans to pursue either a PhD or a law degree next, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to education.
- •Godara returned to his studies at age 76, inspired by his grandchildren's questions, and graduated at 81.
- •His academic journey was previously interrupted when he joined the Army before 20 and later worked in the Haryana Transport Department.
- •Godara's story highlights that the desire to learn should not be limited by age and that education broadens one's perspective.
Key Questions Answered
Lal Chand Godara was inspired to return to his books at age 76 after his younger son's two children began asking him questions that reignited his desire for learning.
After completing his Master's degree in Arts from the Indira Gandhi National Open University at age 85, Godara is setting his sights on pursuing a PhD or a law degree.
Godara joined the Army before turning 20, later worked as a Yard Master in the Haryana Transport Department until retiring in 2002, and competed in masters athletics, winning medals in various competitions.





