Jharkhand HRD Minister Jagarnath Mahto Enrolls in Class 11, Was Mocked For Being 'Just a Class 10 Pass Out'

Ranchi, August 10: Under constant criticism for holding the education portfolio despite not holding a degree certificate, Jharkhand Human Resource and Development (HRD) Minister Jagarnath Mahto decided to resume his formal education. Mahto, who admitted that he was offended by the jibes of his critics, said he has enrolled for Class 11.

Also Read | Nagaland Online Classes: ‘School Education Nagaland’ Channel on Jio TV to Be Available From August 10

The Minister, while speaking to reporters, said he would complete his education till at least the higher secondary level and choose political science as one of the subjects. The decision taken by the 53-year-old has surprised his colleagues within the government as well as the state opposition.

"I am enrolling in Class 11 now and will study hard. I was very offended when my capability of assuming the role of the HRD minister was questioned as I am still just a Class 10 pass out," Mahto said.

Also Read | Smart India Hackathon 2020 Winners: Jamia Millia Islamia's 'Team Monk' Bags Prize of Rs 1 Lakh

The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) legislator, elected from Dumri constituency, was entrusted with the HRD Ministry charge in December last year by Chief Minister Hemant Soren.

Despite his lack of education, Mahto is firm that his Ministry is striving towards improving the reach and quality of education in the state. "4,416 model schools will be opened and operated all across Jharkhand. I have signed the order to undertake the work for it today. This will provide better education in the state with more facilities," he told reporters today.