DR.MEENA BARDIA

Resilience in Action: Transforming Lives Through Learning and Service

Early Life: Family, Values, and Inspiration

Meena Bardia was born on February 1, 1964, in the historic city of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, into a well-educated and progressive family. Growing up in a household where both intellectual curiosity and social responsibility were deeply valued, she was fortunate to be surrounded by the influence of her parents' strong educational backgrounds. Her father, a respected doctor, not only served his community but also instilled in his children the importance of hard work, empathy, and the pursuit of knowledge. Her mother, a highly active and forward-thinking woman, played an equally significant role in shaping the family's values. Known for her progressive ideas, she was a beacon of empowerment for her children, always encouraging them to question norms and strive for excellence in all endeavors.

Meena was the youngest of three siblings. She had a brother who was 10 years older and a sister who was 8 years older, which meant that she grew up in a household with a sense of maturity and experience around her. This age gap also fostered a dynamic where she often learned from her elder siblings, benefiting from their guidance and perspective on life. The close-knit family atmosphere, enriched by a blend of traditional values and modern ideas, provided a solid foundation for Meena's future.

Academic Excellence and Life’s Challenges

From an early age, I was deeply committed to academics and school activities. My academic journey was marked by a strong drive for excellence, and I consistently stood out as a position holder in my school. My passion for learning was not confined to textbooks alone—throughout my school and college years, I was also highly active in extracurricular activities. I participated in a wide range of competitions, including sports, music, dance, drawing, and painting. These diverse interests not only enriched my life but also helped shape my personality, teaching me the value of creativity, discipline, and teamwork.

After completing my schooling with distinction, I pursued my undergraduate studies with a focus on English Literature, Political Science, and Psychology. These subjects ignited a deep curiosity within me, particularly Political Science, which fueled my desire to understand the complexities of governance, society, and human behavior. I was always drawn to discussions on social issues, political ideologies, and the workings of the state. Following the completion of my undergraduate degree, I decided to continue my academic journey by enrolling in Master of Arts in Political Science. During this time, my ambition grew, and I nurtured a strong desire to crack the Civil Services Examination—a goal that would have allowed me to contribute to the country’s governance in a more direct way.

However, despite my aspirations and academic focus, the societal and familial pressures of the time led me to make a significant life decision. In 1984, at the age of 20, I got married. This decision, while fulfilling in many ways, also marked a turning point in my career path. The expectations placed upon me as a young woman, coupled with the traditional values of the society I lived in, made it difficult to pursue my dream of civil services. Instead, I found myself stepping into new roles and responsibilities within the family, and my personal ambitions had to be balanced with the expectations of marriage and family life.

A Journey of Resilience: Balancing Family Life and Academic Pursuits

After my marriage in 1984, at the age of 20, I entered a new phase of life that required a dramatic shift in my daily activities and responsibilities. While adjusting to my role as a wife and later as a mother, I was determined not to abandon my educational aspirations. Despite the traditional expectations placed on women in my in-laws' family, I remained resolute in my pursuit of knowledge. To balance the demands of family life with my academic goals, I adopted a strict routine. Every day, I would wake up at 3:00 AM to study before taking on the responsibilities of household work and social obligations.

This routine was both physically demanding and mentally exhausting, yet my commitment to my studies kept me going. Through sheer perseverance, I earned two gold medals in my MA in Political Science. Achieving this distinction was not only a personal victory but also a triumph over the challenges of juggling academics and family life. The support of my mother, a progressive advocate for education, and my mother-in-law, who despite being from a traditional background, encouraged my academic pursuits, played a crucial role in enabling me to achieve these milestones.

Undeterred by the challenges, I went on to further my education by enrolling in LLB while raising my two young daughters. Despite the demands of motherhood and managing a household, I completed my law degree with very good marks, securing second rank. This achievement reinforced my belief that it was possible to pursue one’s academic goals even in the face of personal and societal obstacles.

Motivated by my passion for political science, I then decided to pursue a PhD in the same field. The journey to obtaining a doctorate was not easy, but my desire to contribute to the academic discourse and deepen my understanding of political theory kept me focused. By 1992, I had successfully completed my PhD, marking the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and personal growth. My academic journey was not just about earning degrees; it was a testament to the transformative power of education and the resilience required to break through societal barriers and personal limitations.

A New Beginning in Academia: Teaching, Struggles, and Career Growth

In 1993, I embarked on a new chapter in my professional life when I began teaching as a Guest Faculty in the Department of Political Science at Jai Narayan Vyas University in Jodhpur. This was an exciting yet challenging step forward, as it marked my entry into the world of academia. Balancing teaching responsibilities with my continued academic pursuits and personal life was no small feat, but my determination to succeed in this new role kept me focused. I was passionate about imparting knowledge and sharing my understanding of political science with students, but I quickly realized that the road to success in academia would require more than just dedication to teaching.

Over time, I navigated the challenges that came with being a guest faculty member, such as job insecurity, the lack of permanence, and the struggle to be recognized for my capabilities. Despite these obstacles, I remained committed to my profession and continued to work diligently. With perseverance and continuous effort, my position was eventually made permanent, marking a significant milestone in my career. However, the journey did not end there. Over the years, I faced various struggles, including navigating complex departmental politics and handling professional challenges that tested my patience and resolve. But each challenge strengthened my resolve to continue moving forward.

Through years of hard work, resilience, and dedication, I gradually rose through the ranks in my academic career. After a prolonged struggle and overcoming various professional hurdles, I was honored with promotions—first to the position of Associate Professor, and later, I was promoted to Professor. These milestones were not just a reflection of my academic achievements but also the result of my determination to overcome obstacles, persist through difficulties, and keep my focus on the long-term goal of contributing meaningfully to the field of political science and education.

Commitment to Social Service: Advocating for the Disabled and Empathetic Service

Alongside my academic achievements and professional journey, I have always felt a deep sense of commitment to social work, particularly in the field of supporting persons with disabilities. This calling was not something that developed later in life; it was an inborn passion that was shaped by my childhood experiences. Growing up with my sister, who suffered from polio, I witnessed her struggles firsthand. From an early age, I became acutely aware of the challenges faced by people with disabilities. Being there for my sister—whether it was supporting her in her education, assisting her with daily tasks, or simply being a constant source of emotional support—instilled in me a profound sense of empathy and compassion. These experiences not only shaped my personal life but also laid the foundation for my lifelong commitment to social work and serving those in need.

As I grew older, this sense of responsibility led me to become involved with various NGOs and organizations dedicated to helping people with disabilities. A particularly close connection was with Pragya Niketan Hostel for the Disabled and Blind and Vikalang Punarvaas Evam Prashikshan Sansthan, both of which were based in Jodhpur. Through my association with these institutions, I was able to contribute in meaningful ways to the lives of individuals facing physical and mental challenges. In recognition of my dedication and service, I was appointed as the warden of Pragya Niketan Hostel—a position I held for 10 years.

During my tenure, I worked tirelessly to ensure that the hostel not only provided shelter but also a nurturing environment where the residents could pursue education, skill development, and gain independence. This role was deeply fulfilling and was an integral part of my life, continuing until my retirement from the university. My involvement in these organizations allowed me to combine my passion for education with my commitment to social service, making a positive impact on the lives of many individuals.

Vision: Empowering Individuals to Achieve Independence and Contribute to Society

• I firmly believe that each person has a fundamental duty towards society, and it's our responsibility to give back in whatever way we can. We are all here for a reason, and as the saying goes, "God helps those who help themselves." This philosophy drives me to contribute to the empowerment of others, especially those who are often marginalized or face unique challenges.
• On a daily basis, I have the privilege of interacting with special students who inspire me with their resilience and determination. These students are not just learning—they are actively pursuing knowledge, seeking job opportunities, and fighting for their rightful place in society. I see firsthand the transformative power of education and the importance of providing them with the tools and resources they need to thrive.

Mission : Fostering Education, Empowerment, and Social Change

• The mission is to empower individuals through education, resilience, and advocacy, particularly for marginalized communities and people with disabilities. Guided by the values of hard work, empathy, and the pursuit of knowledge, the aim is to create transformative opportunities that break down societal and personal barriers.
• With a strong commitment to both academic excellence and social service, this mission seeks to foster inclusion and support for individuals facing unique challenges. Through years of dedicated work with organizations that serve people with disabilities, the focus is on creating environments where everyone, regardless of their background or challenges, has the opportunity to thrive, contribute, and succeed.