78-year-old Mizoram man defies age to enroll in school, walks 3 km to attend Class 9

In a remarkable story of grit and determination, a 78-year-old man in Mizoram walks daily for 3 km to attend class 9 in local school.

As per a ToI board, born in 1945 in Khuangleng village within Champhai district along the Mizoram-Myanmar border, Lalringthara encountered the loss of his father at a tender age, compelling him to assist his mother in the fields to sustain their livelihood. Despite facing abject poverty and challenging circumstances, his unwavering determination fueled his resilience, prompting him to repeatedly resume his studies whenever conditions permitted. "Age shall not hinder my quest for knowledge," he asserts, as he traverses the dirt road to school each day.

Lalringthara's educational journey commenced in Khuangleng, where he pursued studies until reaching Class II. A hiatus occurred in 1995 when his mother relocated to New Hruaikawn village. Only after three years did she manage to secure his enrollment in Class V.


Yet, Lalringthara's aspiration for continuous learning was ephemeral. Placed under the care of distant relatives who accorded minimal significance to education, he found himself toiling in the paddy fields to make ends meet. Despite the disruptions, he acquired literacy in the Mizo language and presently serves as a church chowkidar.

Upon successfully completing Class VIII, Lalringthara sought admission at the local Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan High School in Hruaikawn earlier this year, in April. The school authorities, taken aback initially, decided to admit him into Class 9. Furthermore, they generously provided him with books and a uniform.

Lalringthara's fervor to master the English language motivated him to return to school, even at his advanced age. His aspiration is simply to compose applications in English and comprehend news broadcasts on television. Officials report that his dedication remains an inspiration to all.