Shabnam Sadiq: Bakerwal Girl from Tral Scores 463 in JKBOSE Class 12 Despite Studying Under a Tent

In the rugged, remote reaches of Khatwada Tral, nestled in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district, a simple tarpaulin tent stands as a symbol of resilience and hope. This makeshift shelter, battered by the harsh Kashmiri weather, is home to Shabnam Sadiq, a young girl from the nomadic Bakerwal community, who has defied overwhelming odds to score an extraordinary 463 out of 500 marks in the JK BOSE Class 12 examinations. Her story, one of grit, determination, and unyielding ambition, is an inspiration to students and communities across the region and beyond.

A Life of Hardship

Shabnam Sadiq was born into a family grappling with acute poverty. The Bakerwal community, traditionally nomadic herders, often lives on the margins of society, moving seasonally with their livestock across the mountains of Jammu and Kashmir. For Shabnam’s family, led by her father, Mohammad Sadiq Bokda, a laborer with a modest income, life is a constant struggle to make ends meet. Their current home—a tarpaulin-covered tent—offers little protection from the biting cold of winter or the relentless rains of the monsoon. Yet, within these fragile walls, Shabnam nurtured her dreams of academic success.

Unlike many of her peers, Shabnam had no access to private tuition, a proper study room, or the internet—resources often considered essential for academic achievement in today’s world. The tent, shared with her family, was her only study space, where distractions were plenty, and silence was a luxury. Harsh weather conditions frequently disrupted her routine, with leaking roofs and cold drafts making it difficult to focus. Despite these challenges, Shabnam’s resolve remained unshaken.

The Power of Determination

Shabnam’s academic journey was fueled by her unwavering determination and a deep belief in the transformative power of education. Attending a local government school, she relied entirely on her teachers and textbooks for learning. Without the aid of coaching classes or online resources, she developed a disciplined study routine, making the most of the limited resources at her disposal. Her father, Mohammad Sadiq, though burdened by financial constraints, supported her aspirations, encouraging her to pursue her studies despite their circumstances.

“I studied under a tent,” Shabnam shared in an interview, her words reflecting both pride and humility. “There were times when the rain would seep through, or the cold would make it hard to hold a pen, but I knew I had to keep going.” Her ability to focus amidst such adversity is a testament to her mental fortitude and clarity of purpose.

Shabnam’s success is particularly remarkable given the socio-economic barriers faced by the Bakerwal community. Access to education is often limited for nomadic groups, with many children dropping out to assist with family livelihoods. For a girl in such a community, societal expectations and early marriage pressures can further curtail academic pursuits. Shabnam’s achievement challenges these norms, proving that talent and hard work can transcend systemic constraints.

A Beacon of Inspiration

When the JK BOSE Class 12 results were announced, Shabnam’s score of 463 marks sent ripples of pride through her village and beyond. Her accomplishment was not just a personal victory but a source of inspiration for underprivileged students across Kashmir. Social media platforms, particularly X, buzzed with posts celebrating her story, with users like @ch_iqbal_09 noting, “Shabnam Sidiq from Panner Tral story is a testament to the power of hard work and determination.” Another post by @ddnewsSrinagar highlighted her as a role model, stating, “Her grit inspires the Valley.”

Shabnam’s story resonates deeply in a region like Kashmir, where recent years have seen significant challenges, including security concerns and socio-political unrest. Just days before her results were announced, Pulwama district was mentioned in news reports about security operations following a deadly terror attack in nearby Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, which claimed 26 lives. Yet, amidst such turbulence, Shabnam’s success shines as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of individual resilience to overcome both personal and regional adversities.

The Role of Community and Support

While Shabnam’s individual effort was central to her success, the role of her family and community cannot be overlooked. Her father’s encouragement, despite their financial struggles, provided her with the emotional support needed to persevere. The teachers at her government school also played a crucial role, offering guidance and fostering an environment where she could thrive. In a region where educational infrastructure can be strained, the dedication of such educators is vital to nurturing talent like Shabnam’s.

Her story has also sparked discussions about the need for greater support for marginalized communities like the Bakerwals. Activists and educators have called for improved access to education, better infrastructure, and scholarships to ensure that more children from nomadic and underprivileged backgrounds can pursue their dreams. Shabnam’s achievement underscores the potential that lies within these communities, waiting to be unlocked with the right opportunities.

Looking Ahead

Shabnam Sadiq’s journey is far from over. Her Class 12 results are a stepping stone to greater aspirations. While she has not publicly shared her specific plans, her academic performance suggests she is capable of pursuing higher education in fields that could transform her life and that of her family. Whether she chooses medicine, engineering, or another path, her story will undoubtedly continue to inspire.

For now, Shabnam remains a symbol of what is possible when determination meets opportunity. Her tarpaulin tent, once a symbol of hardship, has become a testament to her triumph—a reminder that even the humblest of circumstances cannot dim the light of ambition. As her story spreads, it challenges stereotypes, uplifts communities, and inspires a new generation to dream big, no matter the odds.

In the words of a local resident quoted in a news report, “Shabnam has shown us that poverty is not a barrier to success. She is our pride, and her story will live on in our hearts.” For Shabnam Sadiq, the Bakerwal girl from Khatwada Tral, the future is bright, and her journey is just beginning.