In brief
Mor Singh, a 60-year-old Indian farmer, has dedicated his home to serve as a makeshift school for children in his village after their original school was damaged. His selfless decision has garnered him local acclaim and support from the government, highlighting issues of inadequate school infrastructure in Rajasthan.
An Indian farmer from the hilly village of Piplodi in the western Indian state of Rajasthan has found himself in an unlikely spotlight.
Mor Singh, 60, never went to school but his selfless act of handing over his house to the village school - after it was badly damaged due to heavy rains - has made him a local hero.
His modest two-room residence now operates as an upper primary school attended by 50-60 students from the village, he says.
Last week, the state government gave Mr Singh 200,000 rupees ($2,266, £1,682) in financial aid for his thoughtful gesture.
Rajasthan saw its wettest July in nearly 70 years, leading to the tragic collapse of a classroom roof, which resulted in the deaths of seven children. This prompted Mr Singh to act quickly to ensure that education could continue for the village's children.
Mr Singh and his family moved to a bamboo-and-tarpaulin shack near his home to allow the school to operate. He believes that education is essential, noting, If I had not taken that quick decision, many children would have dropped out. The only other school is in a neighbouring village, which is a two kilometre trek in the hills.
His noble act has not only turned him into a local celebrity, but it has also attracted government attention, with plans to improve educational infrastructure in Piplodi.
As a result of Mr Singh's actions, the government has designated Piplodi as a 'model village,' which will draw further investment for a new school and other community facilities.
Residents express their gratitude, recognizing Mr Singh as a hero for offering his home for education, which is crucial for the impoverished community's future.
