Than Singh, a Head Constable in the Delhi Police, is the inspiring founder of “Than Singh Ki Pathshala,” a free school near Delhi’s Red Fort that caters to underprivileged children from local slums. Born and raised in a slum in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, Than Singh himself faced the hardships of poverty.
His father’s dream was to join the police, a dream Than Singh fulfilled after two attempts, joining Delhi Police in 2010. Witnessing children in his patrol area scavenging, working as labourers, or begging instead of attending school, he resolved to change their futures through education.
Building a School Against the Odds
In 2015, he began teaching in a small Sai Baba temple near the Red Fort, initially with just one child and eventually expanding to over 100 students today. His school provides free education, books, stationery, and access to technology like donated laptops.
Many of these children come from families who have never sent their kids to school. Than Singh personally arranges transport and coordinates with local authorities to ensure children continue their education in government schools as well.
His commitment spans beyond his police duties, often teaching late into the evening. Delhi Police’s podcast ‘Kissa Khaki Ka’ featured his story, applauding his efforts to keep children away from crime through education.
A Transformative Impact on Children’s Lives
Than Singh Ki Pathshala has become a vital institution for children previously caught in a cycle of poverty and neglect. Many were once scavengers or child labourers, but today, they are excelling academically. In 2025 alone, 20 students from the pathshala topped their classesa milestone reflecting the quality and effectiveness of Singh’s teaching.
He collaborates with police officials and community members, who provide additional support and resources to make education accessible. Celebrities such as Priyanka Chopra and Sonu Sood have praised the initiative on social media, increasing public awareness and support.
Challenges and Community Support
Building trust with parents who initially hesitated to send their children to school was one of Than Singh’s greatest challenges. Many families depend on their children’s labour for survival and were reluctant due to economic constraints.
Through persistent dialogue, Than Singh convinced families of education’s transformative power. The school’s success has attracted donations including computers and educational kits from international donors, such as a delegation from Germany. This community-driven effort highlights how grassroots action paired with public service can bring about meaningful social change.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Than Singh Ki Pathshala is a force for social good, truly embodying The Logical Indian’s values of empathy, peaceful coexistence, and social justice. Through providing quality education to the most vulnerable, the pathshala disrupts cycles of deprivation and opens doors to new opportunities. Such individual-driven initiatives emphasize the role each person can play in uplifting society. The Logical Indian urges readers and institutions to recognize and support similar ventures that nurture the hopes and potential of marginalized children.
