Shah Faisal's feat draws accolades from PM Manmohan Singh

Prime minister Manmohan Singh today lauded Shah Faisal, the first from Jammu and Kashmir to top the civil services examination, saying it shows that educational institutions in the state are "no less" than those in the rest of the country.

"He received all his education in institutions of Jammu and Kashmir. His success is proof that the educational institutions in the state are no less than other educational institutions of our country," Singh said at the convocation of Sher-i-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology.

Recalling his meeting with Faisal, a doctor from valley, Singh said, "his father was a teacher who lost his life to the violence in the state. Dr Faisal has made the entire state proud by standing first in the civil services examination."

The prime minister also congratulated students of the state who have succeeded in the civil services examination.

"A bright future awaits these youngsters. I believe that they will inspire all of us to work for a better tomorrow. I expect many more such achievements from the students of the state. I pray for a successful career for all of you," he said.