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Nilufa Yasmin hails from Katwa, a modest town along Palita Road in Purba Bardhaman, West Bengal, where education was always held in high regard. She comes from a family deeply rooted in teaching—a high school teacher father (recently retired) and a mother who also taught in a school. Growing up in this environment, academic excellence became a way of life rather than a mere expectation.
Academic journey defined by consistency and focus
From her early years at Katwa DDC High School and Katwa College to her postgraduate program at Burdwan University, Nilufa consistently ranked at the top in her class. During her MA, she earned the third highest marks in her department, especially shining in literature—a subject she chose over science despite societal pressure, owing to her love for Bengali music and literature.
A test of perseverance: two setbacks before triumph
Nilufa’s journey to the top was not straightforward. Though she cleared the UGC NET (eligibility for Assistant Professorship) in her first two attempts, she missed the JRF those times. Instead of losing hope, she analyzed her weaknesses in each attempt—particularly in Paper 1 (English, reasoning, aptitude) and her chosen subject—revised her strategy, and prepared with renewed vigor. In her third attempt, Nilufa scored 100 percentile, securing the All India Rank 1 in UGC NET JRF June 2025 for Bengali.
Rigorous preparation and strategic learning
Nilufa attributes her success to disciplined study habits. Despite not being a “morning person,” she would often study late into the night—even till dawn. When questioned, her father encouraged her to balance care and effort: “Don’t stress yourself so much. You don’t need to study this hard”
She focused intensely on Paper 1, practising regularly to regain confidence in English and reasoning. For Paper 2, she immersed herself in Bengali literature texts, critical theory, and medieval literary traditions—her chosen research focus—building personalized notes and using past year questions to fine tune her understanding.
Her PhD supervisor at Burdwan University, Professor Ramen Kumar Swar, played a pivotal mentoring role—encouraging deep scholarship and guiding her preparation path.
Celebrations, acknowledgement, and pride
Nilufa’s perfect score earned her widespread recognition and praise from the Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee. In a heartfelt message on X, the CM congratulated her for securing 100 percentile and AIR 1 in Bengali, noting that her success—and that of fellow West Bengal topper Rikta Chakraborty in Mass Communication & Journalism—had made the state proud.
Nilufa, moved by the recognition, shared that her family’s joy multiplied as relatives, well wishers, and community leaders called and visited to celebrate her achievement. She mentioned the Chief Minister’s acknowledgment meant a lot: “I am so happy that she is so busy but she remembers us… that means a lot”
Looking ahead: research, teaching, and giving back
Now a PhD scholar at Burdwan University, Nilufa plans to pursue doctoral studies in medieval Bengali literature intertwined with music and cultural historya subject that merges her academic passion and artistic inclinations. Her dream is to become a dedicated educator and researcher, contributing original scholarship and mentoring future students in higher education.
She made clear that beyond teaching, she aspires to make a “meaningful academic contribution” through teaching, publishing, and perhaps even leading cross disciplinary work that combines literature and musical heritage.
Lessons learned: an inspiring path for aspirants
Nilufa’s story emphasizes resilience, reflection, and incremental progress. Her two unsuccessful attempts weren’t failures they were opportunities to revise, learn, and improve. She analyzed her mistakes deeply, refined her strategy, and stuck to her academic goals with renewed determination.
Her disciplined routine late‑night study sessions, continued practice in weaker areas, note‑making, mock tests, and consistent revision can serve as a framework for future aspirants. She also highlighted the importance of Paper 1 competence, advising that aspirants keep their English and aptitude skills fresh and sharp even while focusing on their subject paper.
Finally, Nilufa’s example shows that passion for one’s subject, coupled with determined effort, supportive mentors, and a strong inner belief, can turn setbacks into stepping stones toward national success.