Udaipur, Rajasthan – The dedication of Phool Singh Meena, three-time elected MLA from Udaipur Rural Constituency, towards education is truly commendable. Once forced to abandon his studies at the age of 15 due to financial constraints, Meena found new inspiration in his daughters and resumed his education decades later. Today, he stands not only as a passionate learner but also as a role model for girls' education in his region.
Belonging to a tribal family, Meena had to discontinue his education at a young age. However, inspired and encouraged by his daughters, he resumed his academic journey 40 years later, completing his B.A. degree at the age of 55. He then took on the challenge of a Master’s degree in Political Science from Janardan Rai Nagar Rajasthan Vidyapeeth University. At 67 years old, he is currently appearing for his final M.A. exams, with the ambition of pursuing a Ph.D. and dedicating the doctorate to his late father, a soldier.
Despite his demanding political schedule, Meena remains deeply committed to his studies. Known for being proactive in addressing public concerns and asking over 100 questions in the Assembly's Question Hour, he continues to inspire as a public servant and scholar. He is also a member of the Speaker's Panel and the Chairman of the Tribal Welfare Committee for the second consecutive term.
Motivated by his daughters, Meena has now become a torchbearer for girls’ education in his constituency. Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative, Meena launched a unique program to honor academic excellence among girls. Each year, he offers free air travel to top-performing girls (Class 10 and 12) from every panchayat and ward in his area, regardless of social category.
Recently, he accompanied a group of meritorious girls to Jaipur by air, where they met Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma. The CM praised this innovative initiative, calling it a model that other public representatives should follow to promote female literacy, empowerment, and to curb child marriage.
Meena expressed immense satisfaction in witnessing the growing awareness among girls and parents towards education. Each year, both the number and percentage of eligible girls increase, signaling a strong shift toward a more educated and empowered society.
Phool Singh Meena’s journey from dropout to academic and political leader reflects the power of perseverance, and his efforts continue to reshape the future of girls in tribal Rajasthan.