Category Archives: Amazing Feats

Farkhanda Qureshi: Small town woman achieves big success by securing 67th rank in UPSC

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Balaghat, MADHYA PRADESH :

Farkhanda Qureshi of Balaghat, Madya Pradesh, outside UPSC office in Delhi

Farkhanda Qureshi was in her eighth grade when she saw district Collector B. Chandrasekharan son a local Television channel. This visual ignited a dream in her mind; she too wanted to become a civil servant. Today this Muslim woman from from Balaghat, a small town of Madhya Pradesh, has realized her dream which she nurtured over the years with passion, hard work, overcoming failures and perseverance.

Farkhanda Qureshi has secured 67th rank in the UPSC 2024 Civil Services Examination and would soon join the Lal Bahadur Shashtri National Academy for Administration, Dehradun, for training to become an Indian civil servant.

“I had decided that one day I will also become a collector and work for society.” She credits her success in her fourth attempt to her family’s support.

She started preparing for UPSC in 2021. Despite failures, she did not give up. She says, “My parents did not let me break down; they motivated me and told me that I will get success one day. Had they not supported me, I would have probably given up in the first or second attempt,” she told the told media persons.

Farkhanda believes that for a tough exam like UPSC, studying for 18 hours is not necessary, but consistency and strategy are. “I studied for 6 to 8 hours every day, but I studied every day. Old year papers, standard books, current affairs and newspapers were an important part of my preparation.”

Farkhanda Qureshi flanked by her parents Nikhat Anjum and Abdul Malik Qureshi

Farkhanda, who completed her 10th from St. Mary’s School and 12th from Methodist Mission, says, “Being from a small town like Balaghat has never been my weakness. I believe that if the youth here get the right direction and resources, they can make a name for themselves across the country.”

Farkhanda considers her father Abdul Malik Qureshi, who is a lawyer, and her mother Nikhat Anjum Qureshi, a homemaker, her heroes and credits her success to them.

Her father said, “Today people recognize me by my daughter’s name, nothing can give me greater happiness than this.”

There is a festive atmosphere in the area, the collector congratulated Farkhanda and and wished her a bright future. The local mosque committee (Anjuman( also felicitated her and called her inspiration for the Muslim youth.

Out of the 1,009 candidates recommended by UPSC this year, 26 are Muslims, though none made it to the Top 25. 

Iram Choudhary (Rank 40) and Farkhanda Qureshi (Rank 67) are the highest-ranking Muslim candidates in the merit list. A total of 97 Muslim candidates were selected for the interview stage, and the success rate stands at 2.57%, lower than previous years.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Abdul Wasim Ansari, Balaghat, Bhopal (name error edited) / April 26th, 2025

Pahalgam pony operator Syed Adil Hussain Shah dies protecting tourist, tackles armed terrorist

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JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Pahalgam terror attack:

Syed Adil Hussain Shah, the sole breadwinner for his family, was among the 26 killed on Tuesday

Syed Adil Hussain Shah (Photo: Social media), security tightened in Pahalgam (Photo: Reuters)

Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a pony ride operator in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, reportedly lost his life while trying to protect a tourist during Tuesday’s terror attack that left 26 people dead. Shah attempted to wrest a rifle from one of the terrorists as gunfire erupted near the scenic Baisaran meadow. 

Shah, who earned a living ferrying tourists on horseback from the car park to the meadow – accessible only on foot – was the only local civilian killed in the attack. According to an ANI report, eyewitnesses said the terrorists, before opening fire, asked victims their religion and made them recite Islamic verses, reportedly selecting targets based on their answers.

His brave act came as tourists scrambled to flee the ambush. Shah had reportedly tried to shield the tourist he had taken up the trail earlier that day. 

The 32-year-old was the sole breadwinner for his family, which includes his ageing parents, wife, and children. His family is now shattered by both the emotional loss and the financial uncertainty that lies ahead. 

His grieving mother, overwhelmed with sorrow, pleaded for justice, while his father, Syed Haider Shah, recounted the panic and heartbreak upon learning of his son’s fate.

“My son went to Pahalgam yesterday for work. Around 3 pm, we heard of the attack. We tried calling him, but his phone was off. It rang again around 4:40 pm, but no one answered. We rushed to the police station and were told he had been shot,” he told ANI. 

Shah later succumbed to his injuries.

source: http://www.business-standard.com / Business Standard / Home> India News / by Vasudha Mukherjee, New Delhi (headline edited) / April 23rd, 2025

Karkala’s Shoukath Azeem secures 345th rank in UPSC 2024

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Karkala (Udupi District), KARNATAKA :

Karkala : 

In a proud moment for Karkala, Shoukath Azeem from Salmara has secured the 345th rank in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024, turning his long-cherished dream of becoming an IAS officer into reality.

Undeterred by repeated setbacks, Azeem attempted the UPSC exam nine times, finally succeeding with an impressive rank in his last attempt, demonstrating unwavering determination and grit.

He is the son of Sheikh Abdulla and Maimoona from Salmara. His father, a truck driver by profession, raised the family with modest means. Despite coming from a humble background, Azeem’s ambition to join the civil services was ignited during his childhood after watching the Kannada movie Prithvi, starring Puneeth Rajkumar.

Azeem completed his early education at the Karkala Government Urdu School and a private school followed by higher education at a private college in Kukkundoor. He later earned his engineering degree a private college in Moodbidri.

In 2022, he had cleared the UPSC exam and was selected for the accounts division of the defence department, currently serving in Pune. Encouraged to try once more, Azeem made a final attempt and achieved his ultimate goal of becoming an IAS officer.

source: http://www.daijiworld.com / Daijiworld.com / Home> Top Stories / by Daijiworld Media Network – Karkala / April 26th, 2025

From Puncture Shop to IAS: Iqbal Ahmed and Aditi Chhapadia Bring Pride to Sant Kabir Nagar, Village Celebrates

Amazing Feats, Education, Education - Gold Medallists, Toppers, Merits, Achievers (wef. June 12th, 2023)

Nandaur Village (Fatehpur, Sant Kabir Nagar District), UTTAR PRADESH :

Photo Credit: PTI

Sant Kabir Nagar :

They say that determination, courage, and hard work can turn any dream into reality. This has been proved true by Iqbal Ahmed from Fatehpur (Nandaur) village and Aditi Chhapadia from Khalilabad, who have cracked the prestigious UPSC Civil Services Examination 2024 and brought glory to their district, reported the Asia Times.

Iqbal Ahmed secured an impressive 998th rank in the UPSC exam. Coming from a modest background, Iqbal did not let challenges deter his path. He began his education at a local madrasa, completed high school and intermediate at Begum Ishaq Nabi Khan Girls Inter College in Nandaur, and later earned his BA and B.Ed degrees from Hariharpur. Currently, he is serving as a Labour Enforcement Officer.

His father, Mr. Maqbool Ahmed, used to run a small puncture repair shop near the State Bank of India in Nandaur. Due to health issues, the shop has been closed for the past two years. Among five siblings, two of Iqbal’s brothers are involved in painting work. His achievement has been widely celebrated by former teachers and locals, who expressed pride and wished him a bright future.

Meanwhile, Aditi Chhapadia, daughter of prominent businessman and social worker Mr. Ashish Chhapadia from Khalilabad, secured an All India Rank of 97 in her second attempt and has been selected for the IAS. Her remarkable success has filled not just her family but the entire district with immense pride and joy.

Celebrations have erupted across Sant Kabir Nagar. Both Iqbal and Aditi have emerged as beacons of inspiration for the youth, proving that with true dreams and strong determination, one can rise from any background and succeed in the nation’s toughest examinations.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / April 23rd, 2025

Hyderabad Institute of Excellence Students Shine in IIT-JEE Mains 2025 – with Mohammed Aman Mustafa Khan scoring 99.831 percentile with AIR 244

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Hyderabad, TELANGANA :

pix source: instagram/hieschool

Hyderabad:

The Hyderabad Institute of Excellence (HIE) has once again proven its academic prowess with an impressive performance in the IIT-JEE Mains 2025. Around 85% of the students from the institute’s prestigious ‘Super 40’ batch have qualified for the IIT-JEE Advanced 2025, reported the Siasat.

Among the top achievers, Mohammed Aman Mustafa Khan stood out by securing an outstanding 99.831 percentile, earning him an All India Rank (AIR) of 244 in the IIT-JEE Mains 2025.

The HIE, a residential junior college known for its 100% success rate in intermediate examinations, offers a focused academic environment for students aiming for careers in engineering, medicine, or defense through the NDA. Situated on a sprawling 115-acre campus, the institute boasts world-class facilities including international-standard sports infrastructure, a gym, swimming pool, horse riding tracks, and more.

The remarkable results this year are a testament to the institute’s dedicated mentoring and comprehensive academic strategy.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau (headline edited) / April 20th, 2025

Kashmir’s first-ever historic feat: RISE student secures All India Rank 152 in JEE Main 2025

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Srinagar, JAMMU & KASHMIR :

Toiyeb has been officially recognized as the State Topper of Jammu & Kashmir, with his name listed on the JEE website’s official state toppers list.

Kashmir’s first-ever historic feat: RISE student secures All India Rank 152 in JEE Main 2025

Srinagar :

In a monumental academic breakthrough for Jammu & Kashmir, Toiyeb Ashiq, a student of RISE, has scripted history by securing All India Rank 152 in JEE Main 2025. This is the highest rank ever achieved by any student from Kashmir in the prestigious national-level engineering entrance exam — a moment of immense pride for the region and a landmark achievement in Kashmir’s academic journey.

In addition to his outstanding overall rank, Toiyeb has been officially recognized as the State Topper of Jammu & Kashmir, with his name listed on the JEE website’s official state toppers list. What makes this feat even more remarkable is that he also scored a perfect 100 out of 100 in Mathematics, a testament to his exceptional analytical skills and deep conceptual understanding. This likely places him among the top scorers in the subject across the entire country.

Toiyeb’s journey with RISE began in Class 10, when he joined the institute’s intensive three-year program. His academic brilliance shone through early on when he emerged as the CBSE Class 10 Board Topper in 2023. Since then, he has shown unwavering commitment to academic excellence, combining intelligence with hard work, and ambition with humility.

RISEis an educational institution based in Srinagar with a mission to uplift the academic aspirations of Kashmiri youth founded by three IITians Mubeen Masudi, Imbesat Ahmad and Salman Shahid. What started as a modest initiative has now become a powerhouse of talent development — producing IITians, doctors, and scholars. RISE has played a pivotal role in transforming the academic landscape of the Valley by providing top-quality coaching, mentorship, and exposure to national-level opportunities.

Despite the overwhelming praise and admiration pouring in, Toiyeb remains remarkably grounded and laser-focused on his next goal. “I am happy, but this is just a step,” he said modestly after the results. “My full focus is on the JEE Advanced exam coming next month.”

His mentors at RISE believe that this is just the beginning of his journey.

Salman Shahid, Co-founder of RISE, and a graduate from IIT Kharagpur said, “Toiyeb’s achievement is not just a rank — it is a message to every student in Kashmir that with hard work, the right guidance, and belief in yourself, nothing is impossible. He represents the future we believe in: brilliant, hardworking Kashmiri youth reaching the highest levels of academic success. This is a historic moment not just for RISE, but for the entire Valley.”

This achievement is not only a personal milestone for Toiyeb, but a defining moment for the entire education community in Jammu & Kashmir. It signals a shift — from limited access and opportunity to national-level competitiveness and success.

source: http://www.greaterkashmir.com / Greater Kashmir / Home> Education / by GK Web Desk / April 19th, 2025

Ruhul Amin Hazarika from Assam joins cancer detection research in Italy

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Chenibari Village (Darang District) , ASSAM / ITALY :

Dr. Ruhul Amin Hazarika

A young scientist from a small village Chenibari in the Darang district of Assam has brought laurels to the country in global medical research. Dr. Ruhul Amin Hazarika has been appointed as a research scientist at the prestigious University of Calabria in Italy, where he will conduct research on cancer detection and diagnosis with the help of artificial intelligence (AI) and will assist in teaching.

Dr. Ruhul Amin Hazarika is the son of Bashiruddin Ahmed Hazarika and Rabia Khatun, residents of Chenibari village. He received his early education from local Assamese-medium government schools and after matriculation moved to Mangaldoi for further studies.

After passing 12th in Science from Mangaldoi Government Higher Secondary School, he obtained B.Tech, M.Tech, and PhD degrees from North Eastern Hills University (NEHU), Shillong. Due to his hard work and dedication, today he has secured such an achievement which is a matter of pride for the entire state and country.

His main area of research in Italy is to develop AI-based cancer detection systems. This technology can prove helpful in the early detection of cancer and can revolutionize medical science at the global level.

Dr Hazarika believes, “Medium of education and social status are not barriers if the hard work and dedication is genuine.”

He himself studied in Assamese medium government schools from primary to 12th standard and then achieved this position by obtaining a PhD from government universities.

After completing his education, Dr. Ruhul Amin worked as an Associate Professor at Manipal University, Bangalore, where, observing his research work and technical expertise, he received a research invitation from the Italian University.

This achievement of Dr. Hazarika is not just an inspirational message for his family or village but also for the students of Assam and India who dream of touching heights despite limited resources and difficult circumstances.

“With hard work and determination, any obstacle can be overcome. If I can do it, anyone can,” said Dr. Ruhul Amin Hazarika.

His achievement not only strengthens India’s role in the field of medicine and technology but also shows that boundaries cannot stop talent.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / by Ashad Ali, Mangaldoi / April 2Oth, 2025

Chairman of Mitra Academy Iqbal Ahmed receives Lifetime Achievement Award by Education Today

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Bengaluru, KARNATAKA :

Bengaluru:

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of education, Iqbal Ahmed, Chairperson of Little Flower Public School and Chairman of Mitra Academy in Bengaluru, was bestowed with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award – 2023 by Education Today Magazine.

The ceremony, held at the Taj Hotel Kempegowda International Airport Rd, Bengaluru, on December 11, 2023, celebrated Ahmed’s commitment to educational excellence.

“The accolade is a testament to Mr. Ahmed’s deep-rooted passion for education, driven by a sense of social responsibility. His leadership has not only elevated academic standards within the schools but has also prioritized holistic development, shaping students into well-rounded individuals with both knowledge and character. His dedication to excellence serves as an inspiration to educators and learners alike,” a press release stated.

The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes Iqbal Ahmed’s impact on the educational landscape, acknowledging his role in providing exceptional education at an accessible cost.

Expressing gratitude upon receiving the award, Iqbal Ahmed attributed the honour to the collective efforts of the school’s faculty, staff, students, and parents.

In addition to Iqbal Ahmed’s Lifetime Achievement Award, the ceremony also celebrated Tanveer Ahmed, CEO of Mitra Academy and Little Flower Public School, and his wife, Nafeesa Ahmed, Director of Presidency Group of Institutions Bengaluru/Mangaluru, who were honoured with the Power Couple Award for 2023 by Education Today Magazine.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> India / by Vartha Bharati / December 12th, 2023

Trailblazing Leadership Dr Nafeesa Ahmed’s Vision For Empowering Minds In Education

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Bengaluru, KARNATAKA :

In the bustling city of Bangalore, where the convergence of tradition and modernity creates a unique educational landscape, Dr Nafeesa Ahmed stands as a beacon of transformative leadership in the field of education. Dr Nafeesa has carved out a unique path for herself as the Director of the Presidency Group of Institutions while also carrying on her father, Dr Nissar Ahmed’s legacy of excellence and innovation.

Dr Nafeesa Ahmed, Director, Presidency Group of Institutions, Bengaluru, Karnataka

Dr Nafeesa’s educational journey is nothing short of impressive. A graduate of Mount Carmel College, Bangalore, she holds a Bachelor of Business Management (BBM) degree and pursued postgraduate studies in English literature at Bangalore University. Her commitment to education led her to earn a bachelor’s degree in education from IGNOU. Venturing beyond Indian shores, Dr Nafeesa enriched her perspective with a Master’s in International Management from Royal Holloway, University of London. This international exposure was instrumental in shaping her understanding of global education trends.

Her dedication to continuous learning took her to the prestigious Harvard School, where she honed her skills in management and leadership. Dr Nafeesa’s academic prowess is underscored by her diverse qualifications, including a BBM, a B.Ed., an MA in English Literature, and a Master’s in International Management. Her educational journey serves as an inspiration, reflecting the importance of a broad and holistic approach to learning.

Leadership at the Presidency Group of Institutions

Taking the reins as the Director of the Presidency Group of Institutions, Dr Nafeesa has led the K-12 chain of elite institutions with a commitment to “Equal Opportunity in Diversity.” Her vision is to provide high-quality, affordable education to students from diverse backgrounds. Focusing on aspects like course structure, pedagogical innovation, and outcome-based evaluation, she has fostered a conducive teaching and learning environment.

During the challenging times of the pandemic, Dr Nafeesa displayed exemplary leadership by seamlessly transitioning the education system from physical to virtual and eventually to a mixed classroom approach. Her leadership has been pivotal in ensuring that the team of highly-qualified educators delivers the finest education to students.

Accolades and Achievements: A Trailblazer in Education

Dr Nafeesa’s journey is adorned with prestigious awards and recognitions, attesting to her significant contributions to the field of education. Notably, she received the Economic Times Power Icon Award for “Exceptional Contribution in Education” in 2020 and was honoured as “The Education Icon of the Year 2021” by Education Today. Her recognition as a ‘Speaker’ at the “APAC 5th Global Education & Skill Conclave” and features in Women Entrepreneurs and Education World India showcase her as a thought leader in the education domain.

A crowning achievement in her illustrious career is the conferral of a Ph.D., Philosophiae Doctor Honoris Causa (HC) in Education Management by Ecole Superieure Robert De Sorbon (ESRDS), France, Europe. The recognition, awarded at The House of Lords, London, is a testament to Dr Nafeesa’s global impact and commitment to educational excellence.

As Dr Nafeesa Ahmed continues to shape the future of education, her journey stands as an inspiration, showcasing the transformative power of visionary leadership in the realm of academia. In the words of Dr Nafeesa, “My loved ones have been my rock through thick and thin. Having their back has been crucial to my success.” Indeed, her success radiates not only through personal accolades but also through the positive impact she has had on the lives of countless students and educators.

source: http://www.outlookindia.com / Outlook / Home> Brand Studio / by The Outlook Bureau / March 08th, 2024

Seven MS students score above 99 percentile in JEE mains result 2025

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TELANGANA :

37 students qualify for JEE Advanced.

Felicitation of MS students.

Hyderabad: 

Seven students of MS Junior College scored above 99 percentile in JEE mains result 2025.

Among the students, Munazza Siddiqui scored 99.016 percentile in the exam.

The result of JEE mains 2025 was declared nationwide on Saturday, April 20 by the NTA.

Alongside Munazza, several other students from MS Junior College also showcased excellent performance in JEE Main 2025.

List of 7 MS students who scored above 99 percentile in IIT-JEE mains result 2025

A total of 7 students scored above the impressive 99 percentile. They are as follows:

  1. Hafiz Mohammed Abdul Muheeth Simal – 99.86 percentile
  2. Mohammed Ridhan – 99.74 percentile
  3. Muhammed Zahi Faisal – 99.57 percentile
  4. Hamza Wesal – 99.42 percentile
  5. Afnan Ahmed – 99.30 percentile
  6. Adnan Fayas NK – 99.08 percentile
  7. Munazza Siddiqui – 99.016 percentile

In addition, 21 students scored above 93.10 percentile. The total number of MS students qualifying for the prestigious JEE Advanced is 37.

Toppers were felicitated

To celebrate the achievement, Munazza Siddiqui and other top-performing students were felicitated at a special ceremony held at the MS Education Academy’s Corporate Office, Masab Tank, Hyderabad.

On the occasion, the Founder and Chairman of MS Education Academy Mohammed Lateef Khan described Munazza’s success as “historic,” calling it a guiding light for girls of the entire community. He also extended congratulations to all the successful students, their parents and teachers.

The event was also graced by MS Education Academy’s Managing Directors Anwar Ahmed and Dr. Moazzam Hussain.

So far, 173 students from MS have secured admission into IITs, NITs, and other top national institutions.

source: http://www.siasat.com / The Siasat Daily / Home> Lifestyle / by Sameer Khan / April 20th, 2025