Meet the Scholar Making West Bengal Proud with Her Unwavering Dedication and Unique Research in Music and Literature

In a moment of immense pride for West Bengal and the academic community, Nilufa Yasmin, a research scholar from Burdwan University, has secured the top rank in the UGC NET JRF June 2025 exam—with a perfect 100 percentile.

Hailing from Katwa’s Palita Road in Purba Bardhaman, Nilufa’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. A lover of music and literature, and a consistent academic achiever, she is currently conducting research at the intersection of medieval literature and music, an area rarely explored in depth.

Persistence Pays Off: A Journey of Dedication and Growth

This wasn’t Nilufa’s first attempt at the UGC NET. In fact, it was her third. But instead of giving in to discouragement, she took each attempt as an opportunity to learn and improve. With a fresh and disciplined approach, she focused not just on textual mastery but also strengthened her command over English and mathematical reasoning, areas she once found challenging.

“I am very happy. I had hoped I would do well but never thought I would top,” Nilufa shared in an interview. “My professor and guide Ramenkumar sir always encouraged me to focus on my studies.”

Her strategy? Simple yet effective:

• Focused textual study for Paper II (Bengali)
  
• Regular practice in English and reasoning for Paper I
  
• Consistent mock tests and past paper analysis
  
• Balancing academic rigor with her passion for music and creativity
  

Family, Music, and the Power of Root

Nilufa’s family background laid the foundation for her academic mindset. Her father, a recently retired high school teacher, and her mother, also an educator, instilled in her the value of learning. “They are extremely proud,” she says, adding that friends and relatives have been showering their congratulations ever since the results were announced.

An active presence on social media, Nilufa also shares videos of her singing—a reflection of her deep connection to music, which also forms a critical part of her research.

Recognition from the Highest Level

Adding to the excitement, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee personally congratulated Nilufa on social media, alongside another Bengal topper, Rikta Chakraborty.

“I could not believe that the Chief Minister had congratulated me. I am so happy that she remembered us. That means a lot,” said a delighted Nilufa.

What’s Next? A Future in Academia

Nilufa aspires to enter academia full-time, combining her love for research, literature, and music into a meaningful career. Her UGC JRF top rank opens doors not only for PhD admissions but also potential assistant professor positions in top institutions.

The UGC NET (University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test) is a highly competitive exam, with over 10 lakh candidates registering in the June 2025 session. Only 5,269 qualified for both JRF and Assistant Professorship—making Nilufa’s top position all the more remarkable.

Final Words: An Inspiration for Aspirants

Nilufa Yasmin’s story is a lesson in perseverance, passion, and preparation. Her academic journey proves that challenges can be overcome with the right mindset, and that dreams rooted in hard work can lead to historic success.

If you’re preparing for UGC NET, take a page out of Nilufa’s book:

• Stay committed, even after failed attempts
  
• Study smart, not just hard
  
• Don’t ignore the first paper
  
• Stay grounded—and inspired by what you love