Reading time : 2 minutes
In an inspiring tale of perseverance, intellect, and patriotism, Tamkeen Fatima, a young woman from Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), has achieved a remarkable milestone by being selected as Scientist ‘B’ in the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) one of India’s most prestigious scientific institutions under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Her journey from the classrooms of AMU to the laboratories of DRDO is not only a personal triumph but also a shining example of how dedication, education, and national spirit can combine to create extraordinary success.
Tamkeen’s selection was the result of a rigorous and competitive process, where academic excellence, performance in the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE), and a demanding interview played crucial roles. Competing against some of the brightest minds in the country, she stood out for her depth of knowledge, problem-solving skills, and clarity of purpose qualities that reflect both her individual brilliance and the strong academic foundation built at AMU’s Department of Computer Engineering.
A consistent topper throughout her academic career, Tamkeen completed her M.Tech. (Computer Science & Engineering) in 2025 with an exceptional Cumulative Performance Index (CPI) of 9.944, earning the first rank in her class. Her outstanding performance not only won her admiration from faculty and peers but also underscored her commitment to academic excellence. Prior to this, she had completed her B.Tech. from AMU in 2023, demonstrating a rare combination of technical acumen and disciplined scholarship that has become her hallmark.
Her achievements go beyond university accolades. In 2024, Tamkeen qualified the highly competitive UGC-NET (JRF) in Computer Science, securing an All-India Rank 2 with a staggering 99.9933 percentile and that too in her very first attempt. This rare feat places her among the top young scholars in India, affirming her potential for advanced research and teaching in computer science and engineering.
Recognising her exceptional record and dedication to academic growth, AMU’s Department of Computer Engineering appointed her as Assistant Professor (Contractual) in August 2025 through the Local Selection Committee. Her transition from student to teacher within the same department speaks volumes about her abilities and the respect she commands among her mentors. As a faculty member, she continues to inspire students with her passion for innovation, clarity in teaching, and deep sense of national duty.
The faculty members of the department have expressed immense pride in her success, emphasizing that her achievement is not only personal but institutional reflecting AMU’s enduring legacy of producing technologists and scholars who contribute meaningfully to India’s development and defence. They hailed her journey as a testimony to the University’s commitment to nurturing high-calibre professionals who combine technical expertise with patriotic purpose.
In joining DRDO, Tamkeen Fatima has taken a decisive step toward serving the nation through science and technology. The DRDO, known for its critical role in strengthening India’s defence capabilities through indigenous innovation, stands as a pillar of national pride and self-reliance. By becoming part of this elite institution, Tamkeen has positioned herself at the heart of India’s quest for technological sovereignty and strategic strength.
Her journey is a message to the youth of India that excellence, determination, and a spirit of service can open doors to the most prestigious opportunities in the country. It also highlights the growing role of women in science and defence research, as more young women like Tamkeen step forward to contribute to national progress through talent and tenacity.
As India moves forward in its mission of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India), success stories like Tamkeen Fatima’s serve as an inspiration to countless students across the nation. Her achievement is a beacon of hope, reminding us that with education, hard work, and love for the motherland, the sky is not the limit it’s only the beginning.