Retired Coal India GM, 68, attends college in Ranchi to study psychology

Age 68 is generally seen as a time for rest and leisure. But Dr Ashok Kumar, 68, of Ranchi has shown there is no age for learning. Kumar, who retired as general manager at Coal India, is now studying psychology.

He goes to college every day, regularly and on time, with a bag on his back. Professors at the college are surprised to see him come in like this each day.

Kumar served Coal India for 33 years and retired as GM. In 2025, he also worked as vice president and adviser at JP Group.

His entire working life in engineering was spent understanding large machines and their mechanisms. Now he wants to learn how the human mind and behaviour work. He believes that studying human nature is necessary to build the confidence of his employees and to understand them better.

At college he does not see himself as a former officer. For him, he is an ordinary student like the other youngsters. He is originally from Khagaria in Bihar.

His family and friends are very happy with his decision and keep encouraging him. His wife also wanted to do a postgraduate degree, but could not because of household responsibilities.

In today's competitive era, many young people are under stress at the very start of their careers. Against this backdrop, Kumar's decision at 68 shows there is no limit to learning and self-improvement. His journey is inspiring young people to keep learning something new.