When I looked closely at his life and achievements, I was truly amazed. Pursuing her graduate and post-graduate education from Allahabad and Lucknow Universities in the decade 1958-60, followed by international academic journey through Canberra, Oxford to Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) – this is an extraordinary and inspiring achievement for a woman, not only in that period, but even today.
During his tenure at IGNOU, he played an important role in strengthening the foundation of distance education. To provide education to the students of remote and rural areas of the country, he himself went to those areas and organized workshops. In today's corporate language, he implemented the 'last-mile delivery' system of education very successfully.
Be it her research on women workers in the tea plantations of Assam, her study on the rubber plantations of Malaysia or her famous article on the role of women in the Chipko movement – her focus was always on real social issues and change related to the ground. International organizations such as FAO and the World Bank also took advantage of his experience and advice. This shows the strength of his knowledge and expertise.
Managing a family while studying at Oxford, raising children, doing research in different parts of the world and ultimately assuming the responsibility of Director of IGNOU's 'School of Social Sciences' – her life journey is truly amazing.
He not only made his career but also gave equal time and contribution to his family. Gave good values to children and gave direction to their lives. He gave equal importance to both career and family. The balance she demonstrated between the two is highly admirable and is also an inspiring example for today's women.
Pro. The contribution that Shobhita Jain made in the educational, social and ideological fields in her 85 years of life will remain a guide for many generations to come. My heartfelt tribute to such a very dedicated, learned, studious and visionary great scholar.