Dr. Ashok Chintaman More: A Life of Service and Dedication
Dr. Ashok Chintaman More is a distinguished educator, retired banking professional, and dedicated social worker. Born on August 4, 1948, in Dhule, Maharashtra, Dr. Ashok Chintaman More now holds a Master’s degree in English Literature and a fulfilling career at the State Bank of India, where he retired as Manager (Cash), Dr. More has devoted his life to community service, education, and the betterment of society. His post-retirement activities, including leadership roles in Bharat Scouts and Guides, educational initiatives, and social campaigns, have left an indelible mark on countless lives. Dr. More’s unwavering commitment to social welfare continues to inspire and uplift communities across Nashik and beyond.
Early Life and Education
Dr. More began his education at Municipal School No. 27 in Deopur, Dhule. His secondary education was completed at Madhyamik Vidyalaya and Chhatrapati Shivaji High School in Dhule, where his love for literature and public speaking took root. He later pursued his college education at SSVPS MFMA Arts, Science, and Commerce College in Dhule, earning a Master’s degree in English Literature. His academic pursuits laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to learning and teaching.
From his high school days, Dr. More demonstrated an extraordinary talent for debating and elocution, winning numerous awards and trophies. His oratory skills earned him accolades in inter-district competitions in Malegaon, Nagar, and Nashik. Alongside his academic and literary pursuits, he excelled in sports, particularly hockey and football. His team’s victory in an inter-district hockey tournament after an 11-year gap remains a cherished memory.
Professional Career
Dr. More joined the State Bank of India (SBI) as a cashier on November 16, 1976, marking the beginning of a distinguished banking career. His first posting was in Dondaicha, where he introduced innovative community initiatives under the bank’s Innovative Banking Scheme. By teaching English to students in slum areas free of cost, he helped many overcome their fear of the language and achieve academic success.
In 1981, Dr. More was transferred to Nashik, where his professional responsibilities expanded, and so did his social impact. He retired as Manager (Cash) on August 30, 2008, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and integrity.
Social Contributions
Dr. More’s commitment to social service is exemplary. His initiatives have touched countless lives, particularly in Nashik and surrounding areas.
Promoting Health and Hygiene
During his college vacations, Dr. More and his friends visited nearby villages to raise awareness about health and cleanliness. This early exposure to grassroots social work shaped his lifelong commitment to community welfare.
Drinking Water Initiative at Trirashmi Caves
Recognizing the lack of clean drinking water during the annual Dussehra festival at Trirashmi Caves, Dr. More spearheaded an initiative to provide fresh lemon juice and drinking water to visitors. With support from friends and local businesses, this effort continued for several years, benefiting thousands of pilgrims.
Earthquake Relief in Killari
In 1993, after the devastating Killari earthquake in Latur district, Dr. More organized a relief drive as the welfare secretary of SBI’s Nashik branch. The overwhelming response from staff and the local community resulted in truckloads of essential supplies being delivered to the affected area. Dr. More and his team personally rendered voluntary services at the disaster site, earning recognition from their AGM.
Post-Retirement Activities
Dr. More’s retirement marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, dedicated to education, social service, and community building.
Role in Bharat Scouts and Guides
A passionate scout since his school days, Dr. More rejoined the Bharat Scouts and Guides as a Headquarters Commissioner in Nashik. He underwent training at Pachmarhi and rose to leadership roles at state and national levels, including Head Quarters Commissioner for Western India. His contributions to nurturing young minds and fostering responsible citizenship have been widely recognized.
A Torchbearer of Ambedkarite Ideals
Dr. Ashok Chintaman More stands as a dedicated and authentic follower of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, embodying the principles of social justice and equality. His relentless efforts in advancing these ideals have earned him recognition from notable personalities, including the esteemed Prof. Dr. Pandit Ghanshyam Pundlik Thorat, President of the Maharashtra State Advocate Conference of India, New Delhi. This year, Dr. More’s contributions were celebrated with the prestigious International Honorary Doctorate Award by International World Record, New Delhi. His unwavering commitment to social responsibility has been acknowledged by over 200 international media outlets, including The Times of India Today, further solidifying his impact as a global advocate for change.
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Dnyan Vikas Kendra
In 2006, Dr. More became a trustee director of this educational institution, which provides free education to students from impoverished backgrounds. As General Secretary from 2019 to 2022, he took personal responsibility for the education of 10 underprivileged students, supporting them until they completed their schooling. His efforts to promote sports among students by providing shoes and uniforms further underscore his dedication to holistic development.
Parivart Parivar
As Vice President of this literary group, Dr. More has been instrumental in promoting good literature and encouraging budding writers and poets. The group organizes annual conferences to honor unsung literary talents and engages in social activities, including distributing grocery packets during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Shantidoot Bahu Uddeshiya Vivah Sanstha
Believing in the importance of facilitating marriages, Dr. More is an active member of this organization, which organizes monthly seminars for prospective brides and grooms and their families. His efforts have led to numerous successful matches.
Environmental and Social Campaigns
Dr. More has actively participated in campaigns like “Vyasan Mukti Abhiyan” and “Harit Kumbh Abhiyan,” organized by the Social Welfare Department and Nashik Municipal Corporation. These initiatives focus on de-addiction and environmental conservation.
Samta Jeshtha Nagrik Sangh
As a founder member of this senior citizens’ group in Kalptaru Nagar, Nashik, Dr. More has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for the elderly. The group organizes blood donation drives, free medical camps, and educational support for needy students. They have also adopted two tribal villages near Trimbakeshwar for overall development.
Pracharya Nanasaheb More Bahuuddeshiya Sevabhavi Sanstha
In memory of his late father, a renowned principal and social worker, Dr. More established this organization to empower students. It conducts competitions in drawing, essay writing, debating, elocution, and patriotic song singing to instill confidence and patriotism in young minds. The organization also extends support to leprosy patients in Nashik, providing them with clothes and utensils and working to improve their quality of life.
HPOE Foundation
As an active member of the Helping Oppressed People for Education (HPOE) Foundation, Dr. More collaborates with highly qualified professionals from diverse fields to support the education of underprivileged children. This initiative reflects his commitment to inclusive development.
Awards and Recognition
On June 2, 2023, Dr. More was honored with the prestigious “Nashik Bhushan Puraskar – 2023” by the Karmaveer Kakasaheb Solapurkar Sanstha and Shri Sant Gadge Maharaj Nagri Sahakari Patsanstha. This award recognizes his extraordinary contributions to social work and community development over the years.
A Vision for the Future
Dr. More dreams of establishing a school for mentally challenged children. He acknowledges the challenges involved but remains determined to pursue this noble cause with government support and community participation.
Conclusion
Dr. Ashok Chintaman More’s life is a testament to the power of education, service, and perseverance. From his humble beginnings in Dhule to his impactful career and post-retirement social work, he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to uplifting others. His contributions to education, community welfare, and social justice continue to inspire and make a difference in the lives of many. Dr. More’s story is not just a chronicle of achievements but a call to action for all to contribute to society in meaningful ways.
