Dr Muskan Negi, the Election Commission’s Youth Icon, visually impaired singer, and assistant professor, has achieved yet another milestone by becoming the first 100 percent visually impaired woman to receive a PhD degree from Himachal Pradesh University.
Prof. Ajay Srivastava, Chairman of Umang Foundation, announced that Dr Muskan Negi completed her PhD in music under the guidance of Dr Mrityunjay Sharma. This historic achievement adds to her growing list of accomplishments in academia and the arts.
Academic journey of determination
Dr Muskan Negi currently serves as an assistant professor at Rajkiya Kanya Mahavidyalaya (RKMV) in Shimla and is also the brand ambassador of Umang Foundation, an organization working for the empowerment of persons with disabilities.
RKMV Principal Prof. Anurita Saxena congratulated Dr Negi on her remarkable success, calling it an inspiration for students across the state.
Overcoming challenges with technology
Dr Mrityunjay Sharma, her research supervisor, shared insights into Dr Negi’s academic journey, revealing the dedication and hard work she demonstrated throughout her MA, MPhil, and PhD studies in music from HPU.
“She treated her visual impairment as a challenge and conquered it with sheer determination,” Dr Sharma said. He explained that in higher education, relying solely on Braille study material is not feasible, so Dr Negi made extensive use of e-resources through laptops and mobile phones equipped with talking software.
This technological adaptation allowed her to access research materials, academic papers, and resources that would otherwise be inaccessible, demonstrating how assistive technology can level the playing field for students with disabilities.
Family support instrumental in success
Dr Muskan Negi credited her entire family, especially her parents Ambika Devi and Jaichand, for her success. “My parents have encouraged me since childhood and constantly motivated me to excel in academics and singing,” she said.
She also expressed gratitude to her research supervisor Dr Mrityunjay Sharma, as well as Prof. Jitram and Prof. Ramswaroop Shandil from the Music Department for their guidance and support throughout her doctoral journey.
Multi-faceted achiever
Beyond her academic accomplishments, Dr Muskan Negi has made a name for herself as a talented singer and has been recognized as a Youth Icon by the Election Commission of India for her inspiring journey and contribution to society.
Her work with Umang Foundation as a brand ambassador has helped raise awareness about the capabilities of persons with disabilities and the importance of creating an inclusive society.
Breaking stereotypes
Dr Negi’s achievement is particularly significant as it challenges stereotypes about what visually impaired individuals can accomplish in higher education. Her success in completing a PhD—a research-intensive degree requiring extensive reading and analysis—proves that with the right support systems, technology, and determination, disability need not be a barrier to academic excellence.
Her journey from a visually impaired student to becoming an assistant professor and now Dr Muskan Negi serves as a powerful example for differently-abled students across Himachal Pradesh and beyond.
The achievement also highlights the importance of accessible education infrastructure and the role of assistive technology in enabling students with disabilities to pursue higher education and research at the highest levels.
Dr Muskan Negi’s story is a testament to human resilience, family support, academic dedication, and the transformative power of inclusive education.
