Iqra Farooq: Kashmir Valley’s Rising Star in JKAS 2023

Srinagar: In a remarkable achievement for the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) 2023, Iqra Farooq, a young woman from Srinagar, has secured the second-highest rank in the Kashmir Administrative Service (KAS) exams, making her the highest-ranking candidate from the Kashmir Valley. Despite financial challenges, Iqra was unwavering in her determination to serve society and make a difference through the prestigious civil services.

Reflecting on her journey, Iqra shared how her parents’ steadfast support helped her overcome financial obstacles. Coming from a middle-class family, Iqra graduated with a postgraduate degree in 2021 and committed to her KAS preparation soon after. She dedicated 5-6 hours daily to her studies, pushing herself without the benefit of private coaching. “I had to start afresh in a different field. There were a lot of financial challenges, but my parents never took a back step regarding my studies,” Iqra said in an interview.

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Her father, Farooq Ahmad, expressed pride in his daughter’s achievement, emphasizing the sacrifices the family made to support her education. “Like every father, I have worked round the clock to provide financial support to my family. Although my daughter did not receive any private coaching, she qualified for the prestigious exams with Rank-2,” he shared, adding that Iqra and her sibling have always excelled academically.

Iqra’s path to success was marked by relentless focus and commitment. She shared that, from 2021 onwards, she channeled her energy entirely toward cracking the KAS. “I secured the second rank in my second attempt. The exam is challenging; you have to be mentally strong and need the financial support of your parents. I am very grateful to my parents,” she told ANI. Her ultimate goal has always been clear: “I want to reach a position where I can be helpful to people. Civil services was always on my mind.”

Highlighting the driving forces behind her achievement, Iqra credited her success to “my parents, my hard work, and the support of God.” Her story is one of resilience, hard work, and the power of familial support, inspiring countless young aspirants across the valley.

Iqra’s cousin, Suriya, also expressed the family’s pride, sharing, “We are feeling very proud at the moment as she passed such a tough exam. It was her aim, and she struggled a lot.”

Iqra’s success in the JKAS 2023 is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the strength of determination and support from family. Her achievement serves as an inspiration for young women and students across Jammu and Kashmir, proving that with dedication and focus, even the most challenging goals can be reached.