SRINAGAR: On the afternoon of June 14, as thousands across India refreshed the NEET UG result page, a remote village in the hills of Banihal erupted in celebration. Aftaab Iqbal, a resident of Khari in Ramban district, had emerged as Jammu and Kashmir’s NEET UG 2025 state topper.
The moment Aftaab’s name appeared on the result page, joy swept through the village. His family, friends, and neighbours rejoiced at what they described as a moment of pride for their neglected region.
From a modest home far from any coaching centre, Aftaab scored 622 marks, placing him in the 99.98 percentile with an All India Rank of 423.
He said he felt both happy and surprised, having checked the answer key but not expecting such a high rank. “This was my first attempt, after two years of hard work. Mock tests and following the study module helped build my confidence,” he said.
In the absence of local coaching facilities, Aftaab enrolled at Aakash Institute in Srinagar. His determination to overcome geographic and infrastructural challenges became a defining part of his journey.
Aftaab completed his primary education at a government school and later attended Government High School Khari. To pursue coaching, he had to shift between Khari and Srinagar, often spending nights away from home to attend classes. His father recalled the difficulties they faced, including the long hours of travel to and from Srinagar.
“To attend the felicitation, we had to walk two hours before we could even find a vehicle,” he said, pointing to the lack of development in the region. His voice shook as he recounted the moment the result was declared. “We had been waiting since morning. When it came, our house—and the village—erupted with joy. I am proud… so proud.”
He said the success was not Aftaab’s alone. “This was our dream before it became his. Dreams need care. Enrolling them in tuition is not enough. Parents must stand by their children, guide them, and know where they are headed.”
Expressing concern about young students living away from home, he urged parents to remain actively involved. He said he had seen students in Srinagar fall into harmful habits like smoking and warned that coaching centres alone could not be held responsible.
“Parents must remain vigilant. It is not enough to send them off and hope for the best,” he added.
Aftaab’s advice for fellow aspirants was direct. “Be consistent. Keep working. There is no other way.”
He said he had expected a rank between third and fifth in the state, but topping the list came as a surprise. “What I began on the first day, I continued till the last. Dedication and consistency are the key.”
Now aiming to study at AIIMS and become a neurosurgeon, Aftaab expressed gratitude to his parents, teachers, and above all, to Allah. “Without their support, this would not have been possible.”
source kashmir life