Danish Ali

More than the hard work of Irfan Ahmed Lone, a visually challenged person from Bandipora, Kashmir, who cleared the UPSC examination for the Indian Civil Services as a blind candidate with 957^th rank, his father’s vision and ambition contributed to his success.

His father was a casual worker with the local government department, earning Rs 3,000, when he decided to admit his son into the Government-run National Institute for the Visually Impaired, Dehradun, Uttarakhand.

“Back then, it was a very bold decision, more so when he was hard pressed for money,” A neighbour told the visiting media persons who swarmed at the family's house in Manzpora, Naidkhai, Bandipora after the news broke out.

Irfan Ahmed Lone with reporter Danish Ali

Irfan’s biggest test in life began at the age of five when, in two freak accidents, he lost his eyesight and was declared 100 per cent blind.

Irfan’s father enrolled him in a special school in Dehradun for visually-impaired students. There, Irfan not only received an education but also developed a positive outlook on life.

In 2016, he passed his 12th grade with 91% marks. This proved to be the turning point in his life. He secured admission to Hindu College, Delhi University, where he pursued Political Science. Later, he completed his post-graduation in International Relations from Jawaharlal Nehru University.

Irfan

By clearing the UPSC examination, Irfan Lone also brought pride to his district, Bandipora, as he became the first one from the areas that are closer to the Line of Control with Pakistan and are considered backward.

His success has fueled many a dream across India, and especially in Kashmir.

Irfan believes that success requires not just hard work but also smart strategy. He advises young aspirants to avoid distractions like social media to stay focused. According to him, strong determination and consistency are the keys to success.

He often motivates others through poetry:

I cannot stop now,

I still have miles to go,

Through storms and scorching sun,

I must keep moving forward.

Irfan credits his father for his success. He says his father has been the biggest pillar, providing him with much-needed strength. He says his father denied all comforts of life and prioritised his children’s education. His siblings also stood by him.

Ifran’s message to the youth is: Reaching great heights is not the real achievement, Staying there is true success.