THIS UP Village Got Its First 10th Pass Since India's Independence - Know His Story

Uttar Pradesh: In a moment of pride and inspiration, 15-year-old Ramkeval from the remote Nizampur village has become the first student in the hamlet to pass the Class 10 board exams since India’s independence, marking a historic milestone for a community long marginalised and underserved.

Located around 30 kilometres from Barabanki town, and 574.7 kilometres from Lucknow, Nizampur is home to approximately 300 people, most of whom belong to the Dalit community. In a village with no record of formal academic success beyond primary levels, Ramkeval’s achievement has sparked celebration and hope.

The eldest of four siblings, Ramkeval juggled work and studies, doing odd jobs by day to support his family and studying at night by the light of a solar lamp. He recalled, “Despite returning late at night, I would study for at least two hours under a solar lamp at home. Some people in the village used to mock me, saying I would never pass high school. But I always believed I would prove them wrong.”

He earned Rs 250–300 a day by carrying lights in wedding processions, using his earnings to contribute to household expenses. “Poverty forces one to do everything. But I wanted to study no matter what,” he said. Ramkeval studied at the Government Inter College in Ahmedpur, near Nizampur.

Moved by his achievement, Barabanki District Magistrate Shashank Tripathi honoured Ramkeval and his parents on Sunday. “Ramkeval has shown the next generations the path to succeed. I congratulate him and his family for writing an inspiring new chapter in the village’s history,” said O P Tripathi, District Inspector of Schools (DIOS).

He added, “I also take full responsibility for supporting his future education so he can realise his dreams. He is a role model for students who feel disheartened about education.”

Ramkeval’s mother Pushpa, who works as a cook at the village primary school, was overwhelmed with emotion. “I always believed my son would pass. I studied only till class 5, but I want my children to pursue higher studies despite our financial struggles.”

His father Jagdish, a daily wage labourer, added, “I couldn't study, but I always encouraged my son. Even when he came for work with me, he would return and study.”

Ramkeval’s younger siblings are in classes nine, five and one—offering hope that his success may open doors for them as well.

Despite his modest background and the challenges he has faced, Ramkeval has his sights set on becoming an engineer. “It will take time to accept that this is real,” he said, still in disbelief over his results.

Teachers and family members all vouched for his academic potential, noting he has always been a bright student who performed well in class tests and exams.

Ramkeval’s success is already motivating others. Students like Lovelesh and Mukesh, who failed this year’s exams, have resolved to study harder. “I studied till class 8. I work in the fields, but I don't want my son to remain a labourer. Education is the only way forward,” said Lovelesh’s father, Nanku.

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