Father’s Day gift like no other

Father’s Day arrived early for two proud Chandigarh fathers, as their daughters gifted them a moment of unmatched pride and emotion by securing top ranks in the NEET-UG 2025 results declared today.

Eighteen-year-old Nandika Sarin, who secured All India Rank (AIR) 98, says she always knew medicine was her calling. And perhaps, it was written in her genes too. A resident of Sector 32, Nandika comes from a family of doctors — her father Dr Jatin Sarin is a medical oncologist, mother Dr Rimpi Sarin a pathologist, and elder sister Dr Akshita Sarin an MBBS graduate from the GMCH-32.

“Since Class VI, I was clear I wanted to follow the same path,” shares Nandika, beaming after her result. With a score of 646 and 99.9954737 percentile, her success is the result of discipline and consistency. A Sacred Heart School alumnae, she scored 98.2% in Class XII and cracked NEET in her first attempt.

Her father, Dr Jatin couldn’t have asked for a better gift. “She’s always been quiet, focused, and incredibly disciplined. Watching her grow into her dream is the best Father’s Day blessing,” he said.

Nandika prepared with strict study hours of 7–8 daily, ensuring no backlogs and regular revisions. She credits her coaching teachers —Sanjay Ahlawat (physics), Anurag Aggarwal (chemistry) and Dr Arvind Goyal (biology) — for mentoring her through the journey.

She said during exam preparations, she would unwind with walks in the park, watching television and dancing — contemporary and Bharatnatyam being her favourites. “Consistency over long hours was my mantra,” she says.

Another Chandigarh topper, Divya, daughter of Vijay Pal, secured AIR 158 in the general category and secured 5th rank in the SC reserved category. She too has an elder sister pursuing MBBS from the GMCH-32, much like Nandika.

Divya is currently travelling with her father to Hyderabad. “As soon as the results came out, my father’s smile didn’t fade for several minutes,” she said. “We’re spending some time together before I begin my MBBS journey. He’s my inspiration. For the past six years, I’ve seen him make silent sacrifices for my education and future. I just want to say, ‘I wish I can make you proud, Papa.’”

Her father, Vijay Pal, a mathematics teacher at Government Middle School, Sector 45, humbly responded, “My daughters are no less than sons. They’ve proven that dedication and sincerity can take you anywhere. Both my girls worked hard and cracked the exam in first attempt. I only provided support.”

Divya completed her matriculation from St. Anne’s Convent School, Sector 32 and her +2 from Sri Chaitanya Techno School, Sector 44. She had begun coaching early in Class VII, but clarity and full focus emerged after matriculation. Her study hours increased gradually, reaching a full stretch of revision post board exams. “I loved biotechnology, and my dream is to join AIIMS Delhi,” she said. “My sister Manisha helped me immensely, and I owe a lot to my coaching mentors. But my family’s constant encouragement kept me going through tough days.”

When not studying, Divya explored her creative side — painting, calligraphy and basketball helped her unwind.

Nandika and Divya both cracked the test in their first attempt.

“Seeing both our daughters choose a life of service and excellence fills us with immense pride,” said Dr Jatin Sarin. Vijay Pal echoes the sentiment: “On this Father’s Day, we’re not just proud—we’re inspired.”

Chandigarh