Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a moment of pride as several candidates from the region cleared the prestigious Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination 2025, with stories of perseverance and determination emerging from different parts of the Valley.Among them is Irfan Ahmad Lone, a visually impaired candidate from Manzpora in the Naidkhai area of Bandipora district, who secured an All India Rank (AIR) of 957.
Having lost an eye in a school accident during childhood, Lone refused to let the setback define his future. He completed his schooling at the National Institute for the Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities in Dehradun before graduating from Hindu College, University of Delhi. He later pursued Political Science at Jawaharlal Nehru University.
Lone had earlier cleared the probationary officer examination of the Punjab National Bank and is currently working as an Assistant Administrative Officer in the Life Insurance Corporation of India.
His success has brought celebrations to his hometown, with family members, neighbours and well wishers visiting his residence to congratulate the family.
“His journey shows that with determination and focus, even the most challenging goals can be achieved,” said his cousin Feroz Ahmad.
Neighbours said Lone’s father, who worked as a casual labourer on modest wages, ensured that financial constraints did not hinder his son’s education.
His younger sister Shabia said the family had always believed in his abilities.
“I always believed he would succeed. He worked extremely hard and managed his job while preparing for the exam. His dedication has paid off,” she said, adding that the achievement has made the entire district proud.Towseef Ahmad Ganie’s Story of Determination
From south Kashmir, Towseef Ahmad Ganie from Puchal area of Pulwama district also scripted an inspiring success story. The son of a labourer, Ganie secured AIR 254 in his second attempt.
Currently working as a veterinarian in Poonch district for the past two years, Ganie pursued civil services despite financial constraints and limited resources.
His father, Mohammad Ishaq, said his son had always been a bright student and dreamed of achieving something significant.
“After completing his Bachelor’s in Veterinary Science, he told me he wanted to prepare for the IAS examination even though it required significant expenses,” Ishaq said.
To support his children’s education, Ishaq said he sold his land and worked as a labourer in different parts of the Jammu region.
“I am thankful to God that our sacrifices have paid off. People have been calling continuously to congratulate us,” he added.
JKAS Officer Clears Exam
Another successful candidate is Muneeb Parrah, a serving Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) officer from Kandigam village of Bijbehara in Anantnag district, who secured AIR 581.
His elder brother Irfan said Parrah had cleared the examination in his second attempt.
