by Babra Wani
SRINAGAR: The results of the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Services (JKAS) examination have been announced, with a young man from Samba securing the top position.
Sanjeev Kumar, hailing from Samba, scored 1,089 marks in the Open Merit category, earning him the first-place ranking. Close behind is Iqra Farooq, from Zakura, Srinagar, with 1,078 marks, followed by Vasudha Sharma in third with 1,075 marks. The fourth position was secured by Tasneem Kabir, another Kashmiri aspirant, who scored 1,074 marks.
In an interview, Sanjeev shared that his approach focused on consistent hard work over elaborate strategies. “I believed in studying diligently and leaving the rest to God,” he said, explaining that his preparation was inspired by previous successful candidates. “There are a few essentials—getting good sleep, praying, and studying. Long hours are challenging; it is consistency that matters, not duration. We should study regularly, even if it is only four hours a day,” he added.
Discussing the demands of the JKAS syllabus, Sanjeev noted that students from both science and humanities backgrounds have equal opportunities. “The field is level; background does not make a big difference,” he said. “Revision is essential, and quality study matters more than quantity.”
When asked about his daily schedule, Sanjeev described a flexible approach. “I would wake up, eat, go to the library, and study without following any strict timetable,” he said. He also emphasised the importance of learning from past mistakes and being mentally and physically prepared for the examination. “Physical fitness is very important,” he advised.
Sanjeev said he had not anticipated ranking first. “I never expected to come first or even second. It is hard work and luck that made it possible,” he reflected. Not one for social media, he added, “I prefer old-school study methods, and that works best for me.”
On resources for preparation, Sanjeev felt confident about the availability of material and guidance. “There is ample material and guidance out there,” he said. “Anyone with determination, whether from urban or rural areas, can succeed in this exam.”
With an engineering background, Sanjeev explained that his interest in civil service began during his studies. “I was an average student. I started preparing along with my friends,” he recalled. Since 2019, he has been working towards this goal, achieving it on his third attempt. “I did not encounter major challenges; I planned each move. I firmly believe that God guided me. We just need to focus on the action and leave the rest to God.”
“I never focused on the results,” Sanjeev Kumar remarked, placing emphasis instead on the journey. “Almighty plays the most major role in these outcomes,” he added.
For Sanjeev, family support was essential. He credited his parents as his greatest motivation, describing their role as “unmatchable” and their support as unconditional. Friends, too, contributed significantly. “Their guidance made a difference. They motivated and rooted for me,” he noted, adding that surrounding oneself with positive people is invaluable.
The moment he learned he had topped the list was a whirlwind of celebration. “Everyone called to congratulate me,” he recalled. Upon returning home, he found a gathering of well-wishers waiting to celebrate with him and his family.
To future aspirants, Sanjeev’s advice was clear: “Work hard and trust the process. Shortcuts should be avoided at all costs.”
In the second place, Iqra Farooq’s academic background lies in horticulture, with both her undergraduate and postgraduate degrees from Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Science and Technology (SKUAST).
“I started preparing in 2021,” Iqra said, describing how she began by crafting a study plan and building a foundation from the basics. Her preparation included making her own notes and focusing extensively on revision. She achieved her position on her second attempt, relying on self-study rather than coaching. “Self-studying is what makes the difference,” she reflected, though she acknowledged that coaching provides helpful guidance. “I had to source materials, plan, and strategise independently. It is all thanks to Allah and my parents that I succeeded.”
Consistency, according to Iqra, is crucial. “Five to six hours of productive studying is enough if one is motivated,” she advised. Financial challenges and mental hurdles were present, she admitted, yet her parent’s unwavering support made the difference. “My parents dreamed that I should qualify,” said Iqra, whose father works as a tailor. The feeling upon seeing her name on the list was “overwhelming,” she said, as she had always hoped for such a result.
Her message for fellow aspirants is simple: “Hard work is the key.”
In fourth place is Tasneem Kabir Dar, from Peerbagh, Srinagar. Tasneem, who holds a law degree (LLB) from Campus Law Centre, Delhi University, succeeded in her first attempt. Her family roots trace back to Handwara.
Tasneem expressed deep gratitude. “Foremost, I feel grateful to God for his grace,” she said and extended thanks to her parents, mentors, and peers for their constant support.
Reflecting on her approach, Tasneem described her core strategy as one of “consistency, balance, and optimism,” qualities she credits with helping her achieve success.
A total of 71 aspirants have made it to the list.
