In a remarkable achievement that has put West Bengal in the national limelight, Nilufa Yasmin, a research scholar from Katwa in Purba Bardhaman, has emerged as the All India Rank 1 holder in the UGC NET JRF June 2025 exam in Bengali. Scoring a perfect 100 percentile, her accomplishment stands as a testament to relentless effort, strong academic grounding, and unwavering family support.

From small town dreams to national recognition

Nilufa hails from Palita Road in Katwa, a town where education held great value, especially in her home. With both parents being retired schoolteachers, learning was seamlessly integrated into her upbringing—well beyond the boundaries of the classroom.

Though her path wasn’t easy, she remained resilient. After two previous attempts at the UGC NET exam, Nilufa finally achieved success in her third try—and in spectacular fashion. Not only did she clear the exam, but she also topped the country in her subject.

Scholarship rooted in culture

Currently enrolled as a PhD scholar at Burdwan University, Nilufa is exploring the relationship between Bengali literature and medieval musical traditions. Her academic interests mirror her cultural heritage and personal curiosity. Throughout her school and postgraduate studies, she consistently ranked at the top of her class and earned recognition for her dedication to learning.

Outside the realm of academia, Nilufa is also an accomplished singer. She shares her musical performances online, blending her artistic side with scholarly pursuits in a way that is truly distinctive.

Praise from the Chief Minister

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee acknowledged Nilufa’s remarkable feat on social media, writing a congratulatory post. She also celebrated Rikta Chakraborty from Kolkata, who secured the second rank nationally in Mass Communication and Journalism.

The Chief Minister’s official X (formerly Twitter) post read: “Heartfelt congratulations to Nilufa Yasmin from Katwa, Purba Bardhaman, for securing AIR 1 in Bengali in the UGC NET JRF June 2025. Also proud of Rikta Chakraborty from Kolkata for securing AIR 2 in Mass Communication and Journalism. Bengal’s daughters continue to make us proud!”


Nilufa responded, saying the recognition means a lot to her, especially as it honors the support of her family, mentors, and academic community. “It served as a powerful validation of her journey and a reminder that sincere effort does get noticed.”

UGC NET June 2025

The results of the UGC NET June 2025 examination saw an impressive participation rate. Out of 10,19,751 registered candidates, 7,52,007 appeared for the exam. In total, 5,269 candidates qualified for both Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and Assistant Professorship, while 54,885 candidates cleared the eligibility for Assistant Professorship and PhD admission. Additionally, 1,28,179 candidates qualified exclusively for PhD admission.

These numbers reflect the growing competition and interest in academic careers across India. The UGC NET continues to be a vital gateway for higher education, setting the standard for academic and research excellence in the country.

Looking ahead

With her eyes set on contributing further to the field of Bengali literature, Nilufa plans to stay in academia—teaching, mentoring, and conducting meaningful research. Her journey is a powerful example that setbacks are only stepping stones to success.

As her story spreads, Nilufa has become a beacon of inspiration for students not just in West Bengal, but all over India. Armed with determination and a passion for knowledge, she moves forward carrying both her achievement and the hopes of a new generation of scholars.

[With TOI inputs]