During my recent visit to a Sufi shrine, I had the fortune of visiting Punzwa village in the Vilgam block of Kupwara district, Jammu and Kashmir. The village’s outstanding educational achievements prompted me to share their inspiring story, which stands as a testament to the transformative power of education in rural communities.
Punzwa, often referred to as the “village of doctors,” has distinguished itself through its remarkable success in the NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test), a highly competitive examination for medical education in India. To date, 30 students from this remote village have qualified for NEET.
The success is so consistent that Ghulam Mohammad Bhat, a mathematics lecturer at Boys Higher Secondary School Karihoma Kupwara, proudly noted, “Every year, five to six students qualify NEET in this village. The total now has reached 30.”
Another prominent writer and renowned educationist, Ayoob Khan Dilbar, states, “This village has produced notable achievers, including Nadia Beig, a female IRS officer through the UPSC, and Nissarul Haq Khan, the first judge from the parganas of Rajwar, Ramhal, Magamnar, Kralpora, and Trehgam through JKPSC (Judiciary). Additionally, Adil Bhat is pursuing a postdoctorate in Biochemistry in New Mexico City, USA. Scores of postgraduates and graduates in various disciplines, including paramedical fields, further illustrate the village’s academic prowess”.
The academic success of Punzwa’s students can be attributed to the unwavering support of their community and parents. In rural areas, where educational resources are often limited, the encouragement and active participation of parents in their children’s education play a crucial role.
The parents in Punzwa have shown immense dedication, recognizing that education is a powerful tool for transforming lives. Their involvement, alongside the hard work of teachers, has been instrumental in the students’ achievements.
Punzwa’s consistent success in NEET is a clear indicator of the village’s unique talent and determination. This small village has managed to carve out a notable name in the district through its academic accomplishments. The success story of Punzwa serves as an inspiration for other villages in Kashmir and beyond, demonstrating the significant impact of quality education and community support.
To sum up, reflecting on my visit to Punzwa, I am filled with admiration for its students, parents, and educators. Their collective efforts have transformed a remote village into a beacon of educational success. Punzwa’s journey is a powerful testament to the potential of rural communities and the transformative power of education. It is a village that truly deserves to be celebrated and emulated
The author is regular GK contributor.