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The results, announced in April 2026, revealed that Zainab scored 475 out of 500 marks. Perhaps most impressively, reflecting her mastery over technology, she earned a perfect score of 100 in Computer Science.
Zainabâs journey into the digital world was significantly shaped during the COVID-19 shutdown. Along with her peers from Delhi Public School (DPS) Srinagar, she participated in Chakshumathiâs Letâs FICE Online Digital training, a program focused on breaking barriers through digital learning. This early immersion in technology paved the way for her to discard the traditional scribe-assisted method of writing exams, choosing instead to use a computer to demonstrate her knowledge independently.
In a landmark achievement that has redefined the boundaries of inclusive education in India, Zainab Bilal, a visually impaired student from Srinagar, has secured a staggering 95% in the CBSE Class 10 examinations. Her victory is not merely a personal academic milestone but a historic moment for the Central Board of Secondary Education, as she became one of the first visually impaired students to successfully attempt the examination using a laptop without the assistance of a scribe.
Long before her academic success made national headlines, Zainab was already a known figure in her school community as a Radio Jockey (RJ). Operating out of Radio DPS, the student-run station at DPS Srinagar, she hosted the popular show "Chai".
At the age of 12, Zainab made waves by interviewing prominent figures, including former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan. Her interview with Aamir Khan, which became an "all-time hit" on YouTube, showcased her confidence and poise. During the interview, she engaged the actor in a soulful conversation about his filmsâsharing that Taare Zameen Par was her favorite movieâhis shooting experiences in Kashmir for Laal Singh Chaddha, and his philanthropic work. Aamir Khan himself praised the inclusive environment of DPS Srinagar, describing it as a "lovely school" and a "beautiful place to grow up".
Zainab credits these interactions with boosting her confidence significantly. "It made me realize that I have a voice and can bring meaningful change," she remarked.
Zainabâs success is a testament to the power of inclusive education, specifically the Learning Resource Centre (LRC) at DPS Srinagar. The LRC provided Zainab with more than just academic guidance; it offered the emotional and mental support necessary to navigate a rigorous curriculum.
She has expressed deep gratitude toward Vijay Dhar, the schoolâs owner, and her teachers for fostering an environment where she never felt limited by her disability. "They never made us feel limited because of our disability. Instead, they created an environment where we could grow and express ourselves confidently," Zainab shared.
Behind her 95% score lies a disciplined routine and a strong support system. Zainab emphasizes that her success is the result of consistency rather than just grueling hours. She believes that studying for even a few hours daily can lead to exceptional results if done regularly.
Her familyâincluding her mother, father, and grandfatherâhas been her "biggest strength," supporting her at every step of her journey. Residing in Badshah Nagar, Natipora, Zainabâs home has become a hub of celebration, where she urges other parents of specially-abled children to never underestimate their potential. Her father Mr. Bilal worked many years in Kochi Kerala and shared a lot of fond memories during one of my visits to Srinagar last December.
Zainabâs perfect score in Computer Science is a precursor to her long-term career goals. She has expressed a firm desire to enter the Information Technology (IT) sector, with plans to pursue a Bachelorâs in Computer Applications (BCA). Her interest in computers is not just academic; it is a passion that has empowered her to communicate and compete on an equal footing with her peers.
Chakshumathi always felt that DPS Srinagar, even though they encourage and support the children with blindness through their LRC (Learning Resource Centre), they keep these children away from Mathematics from 8th standard and push them more towards humanities. This is one of the most discouraging acts any school can do to a child who wishes to go for technological studies.
During November 2025, when I met Zainab at Srinagar, she revealed that she was not allowed to study Mathematics from 8th standard. This certainly destroys the chances of the student to choose science and math in the Grade 11 and 12 to get qualified for technological higher studies. She said, if we can help her to learn math and cover the missed topics, she does not mind giving a try for Math in the 10th examinations. We tried for a few days and we found that she is getting into stress and then we advised her to continue with her subjects and get good marks and then try to enroll for Grade 11 and 12 in MPC group in CBSE and if not allowed in NIOS.
After the 10th standard, again, the school forced her to take Humanities for Grade 11 and 12 and the classes have already resumed. Chakshumathi wants to register our protest to DPS Srinagar management for this decisive act.
Watch Zainabâs Interview with Aamir Khan. Click the link below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N86bMbDmti0
Footnote to the parents: If your child missed Mathematics and Science in the Grade 11 and 12, still there is a chance to study Technology through the new online BSc Courses offered by IIT Madras. Learning accessible Mathematics is within the reach of a blind student only. Ask help with Chakshumathi for assistance.
Zainab Bilal talking to the audience on her style of studying and the role of AI in her merits at the Digital Saksharata Program for Kashmiri Students at the NIELT November 2025