07/02/2026
Meet Dimple from Udaipur.
She walks her children to school before heading to her work at Anganwadi centre, her day resembling many mothers juggling jobs and household responsibilities. Dimple grew up with 3 younger siblings and little income, she was responsible for household responsibilities from a young age, this taking priority over schooling. She wanted to keep studying but in 2012, she failed her Grade 10 exams, and left the education system.
Her father met with a serious accident, leaving him unable to work, so at 17, Dimple began working at a bangle shop and by 18, she was married. Her husband, Durgesh, worked as a waiter, while his mother cooked in a hostel, but they were still living pay packet to pay packet. Dimple became a mother to two children. When Durgesh lost his job, the family’s situation became precarious. Dimple wanted to contribute, but without a Grade 10 certificate, she couldn’t secure a paying job.
In 2018-19, Dimple’s mother-in-law noticed classes near her workplace—part of Pratham Education Foundation’s Second Chance program, which helps older girls and women complete their secondary education. She encouraged Dimple to join, paying for her registration. Durgesh was less sure. With two children and so many responsibilities, how would they manage? But his mother’s determination swayed him.
When Dimple enrolled, her daughter Gunjan was 9 months old. She attended class with her baby in her arms. Her mother-in-law supported her wherever she could—cooking, cleaning, caring for the children. Durgesh began sharing responsibilities at home. In 2020, Dimple passed her Grade 10 exams with 68%. Encouraged by her success, she secured a job as an Anganwadi worker.
Inspired by her journey, Durgesh decided to resume his education. He enrolled in the Second Chance program’s online learning option and, in 2021, passed his Grade 10 with 52%, securing paid employment at an E-Mitra centre (a government initiative providing digital services to the public).
Their neighbour, Jumma took inspiration from Dimple and Durgesh, and with their encouragement and support passed Grade 12.
Dimple completed her graduation while continuing her work as an Anganwadi helper. Durgesh runs services at the E-Mitra centre. Their children attend school regularly. Their efforts have brought financial stability to their family, and their story has inspired others in their community to relook at the value of education.
“If given a second chance, we can change our lives,” Dimple says. “I once thought education was beyond my reach, but today, it has given me confidence and independence.”
