Pulwama, Jan 15: Defying geographical isolation, lack of basic infrastructure and everyday hardships, two students from far-flung areas of Tral in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district delivered exceptional performances in the Class 10 board examinations.
According to the details, Rayees ul Islam, a tribal boy from the remote village of Zradihard Tral, secured an outstanding 491 marks out of 500, while Mudasir Ahmad Gojar from the highly isolated Nagnaad Tral scored an impressive 496 marks, proving that determination and consistency can overcome even the toughest odds.
Rayees, who studied in a local private school, comes from a modest tribal background where access to quality education and facilities remains limited. He attributed his success to the unwavering support of his parents and teachers.
“Whatever I have achieved today is because of my parents and teachers. Many students fail not because they lack ability, but because they don’t listen to their parents and teachers,” Rayees told KNO.
Rayees plans to opt for the science stream. “My dream is to become a doctor and serve society, especially people living in underdeveloped and marginalised areas. People in far-flung areas suffer due to the lack of medical facilities, and I want to change that,” he said.
Sharing his mantra for success, Rayees emphasised the importance of discipline and perseverance. “Determination, consistency and self-motivation are the keys to success. There are no shortcuts,” he said.
However, Rayees also raised serious concerns about the neglect of remote tribal areas.
“The government must seriously look into the problems of far-flung areas. Many schemes meant for such regions exist only on paper and are not implemented on the ground. People here continue to struggle for basic amenities,” he said.
MUDASIR AHMAD SECURES 496 MARKS
Mudasir Ahmad Gojar’s story is one of extraordinary resilience. Hailing from Nagnaad Tral, one of the most remote and inaccessible villages in the area, Mudasir secured 496 marks despite facing extreme hardships for years.
Nagnaad lacks basic road connectivity, forcing Mudasir to walk nearly four kilometres daily—around 40 minutes each way—to reach the bus stop.
“For the last 14 years, I have been walking daily, as there is no road facility in our area. Even now, I walk around 40 minutes every morning and evening just to reach the bus stop and return home,” Mudasir said.
His daily journey often involved passing through forests and orchards, exposing him to threats from wild animals, especially during harsh winters and scorching summers.
“There was always fear while travelling through forest areas, particularly during winters and early mornings. Still, I never gave up,” he recalled.
Mudasir studied in a private school in Tral town and credited his success to his teachers and parents.
“My teachers and parents played a crucial role in my success. Their guidance and support kept me motivated,” he said.
Reflecting on his struggles, Mudasir said hardship builds strength if accompanied by the right mindset.
“One who struggles but remains motivated and focused ultimately succeeds. Education is essential for everyone. If someone gets involved in wrong activities, the outcome will also be wrong,” he said.
Mudasir now aspires to crack a competitive examination and work for the development and welfare of his area, which continues to lag behind due to poor infrastructure.
The brilliance of Rayees ul Islam and Mudasir Ahmad Gojar highlight not only individual brilliance but also exposes the glaring developmental gaps in remote areas of Tral. Despite their talent and determination, students from these regions continue to battle poor road connectivity, lack of transport, and inadequate implementation of government schemes—(KNO)
