Baramulla, Mar 14: For Burhan Qayoom, qualifying the prestigious Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) examination was more than a personal milestone—it was an effort to fulfil the long-cherished dream of his father, who has spent his life teaching in a private school.
Hailing from Chandoosa, a remote Kandi village in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, Burhan secured Rank 39 in the Combined Competitive Examination (CCE), bringing pride and joy to his family.
Growing up with limited resources, Burhan said he never allowed circumstances to limit his aspirations. Determined to change the fortunes of his family, he remained focused on his goal and eventually achieved success.
His father, who has devoted decades to teaching in a private school, ensured that his children received quality education despite modest means. Burhan’s achievement is being celebrated in the family as the first high-profile government position in their clan.
Before qualifying for the JKAS examination, Burhan had secured a government job as a Panchayat Accountant Assistant through the Services Selection Board and was posted in Surankote, Poonch. While the job provided some financial stability to the family, he said his real motivation remained fulfilling his father’s dream.
“My father worked extremely hard throughout his life to educate us. Cracking the JKAS became my passion because I wanted to give something special back to him,” Burhan said.
He said the journey was not easy, as he had earlier cleared the preliminary and mains examinations, but could not make it through the final stage. However, he continued his preparation with renewed determination and eventually succeeded.
Coming from a far-flung village where access to coaching facilities is limited, Burhan said he relied largely on self-study for his preparation.
“Being from a remote area, coaching was not an option. I mostly depended on self-study, and tools like the internet proved to be a game-changer during my preparation,” he said.
Burhan’s journey from a remote village to the civil services is now being seen as an inspiration for many aspirants, particularly those from rural and underprivileged backgrounds.
