Baroda (Vadodara) has long been a city known for its educational excellence and thriving student culture. And the June 2025 CMA Foundation Examination results have only cemented that reputation further.

With a remarkable 71.03% pass rate, the Baroda centre of the Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICAI) has once again shown what focused preparation, quality guidance, and student dedication can achieve. Out of 107 students who appeared for the exam, 76 successfully passed, setting a strong academic benchmark.

But behind this achievement lies an even more inspiring story—one that goes beyond marksheets and into the realm of human spirit.

Neel Barot: Turning Disability Into Determination

Among the successful candidates was 19-year-old Neel Chintankumar Barot, a student from Godhra in Panchmahal district, whose courage and persistence overcame physical limitations that would discourage many.

Neel was born with amblyopia, high myopia, and corneal opacity, resulting in 60% vision impairment in both eyes. As his condition worsened with age, his academic journey became increasingly challenging.

But Neel didn’t let his disability define him.

“I have had this condition since birth,” he said. “My vision gradually decreased, but I found ways to keep learning.”

Currently in his second year of BBA at MS University’s Faculty of Commerce, Neel took on the additional challenge of preparing for the CMA Foundation exam—armed not with sight, but with sheer willpower and creativity.

A Unique Approach to Learning

Unlike most students, Neel couldn’t rely on regular textbooks or coaching classes. He turned to audio content available online and asked his parents to help him prepare large-font printouts so he could study with minimal strain.

Neel’s mother, Vaishali Barot, runs a small home-based snack business, while his father, Chintan Barot, earns a living through seasonal work. Despite the financial and emotional challenges, the family never wavered in supporting Neel’s academic goals.

“My parents prepared my study material in a format that worked for me,” said Neel. “Their belief in me kept me going.”

Support from ICAI Baroda That Made a Difference

The ICAI Baroda chapter also played a crucial role in making Neel’s success possible. Understanding his needs, they ensured he had the right exam environment.

Neel was granted special permission to write the exam over three hours instead of the standard two. He was also given a separate classroom to ensure minimal distractions during the MCQ-based paper.

“I’m grateful to the faculty and support staff,” Neel said. “They didn’t treat me like a liability. They treated me like a student with potential.”

Now, with the CMA Foundation exam behind him, Neel is setting his sights higher. His next goals: complete his BBA, become a certified cost and management accountant, and eventually appear for the prestigious RBI Grade B Officer examination.

Baroda’s Brightest: CMA Foundation June 2025 Toppers

While Neel’s story captured hearts, several students from Baroda stood out academically with outstanding scores in the June 2025 CMA Foundation exam:

Raj Vadher – 1st Rank | 326/400 marks

Aryan Panchal – 2nd Rank | 314/400 marks

Joint 3rd Rank – Asma Valikarimwala, Dipkumar Vadher, and Harsh Jasani, all scoring 296/400 marks

These top scorers are a testament to Baroda’s robust academic ecosystem, which continues to nurture excellence in the field of commerce and finance.

Final Thoughts: More Than Just Numbers

The 71.03% pass rate at ICAI Baroda is impressive. But what makes this result extraordinary is the human stories behind the numbers. Neel Barot’s success reminds us that disability is not inability—and that true achievement is born from grit, innovation, and the support of those who believe in you.

For every aspiring student out there, especially those battling personal or financial struggles, Neel’s story offers a powerful lesson:

Never let your limitations define your future.

If you believe in your goal and are willing to work through your challenges, success isn’t just possible—it’s inevitable.