Ananya means business: Future economist tops CUET

Time of India

05-07-2025

TNN
Ludhiana: Ananya Jain of DAV Public School, Pakhowal Road, Ludhiana, has emerged as the national topper in the Common University Entrance Test (CUET), 2025, securing All India Rank (AIR) 1.
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Ananya, who wants to pursue BA (Hons) Economics in Delhi University, attributes her feat to sharp focus, unwavering discipline, and methodical preparation. Prioritising early and preparing thoroughly has stood her in good stead, adding to her track record of academic brilliance.
Ananya was clear about her goals and started preparing for CUET even before she started Class XII. With discipline, clarity and good time management skills, she balanced her CBSE Class XII syllabus with CUET topics.
"Similarities in the syllabus helped me focus on both," she said. However, the real push came in the last leg of preparation. "For the final month before CUET, I was taking five mock tests every day," Ananya shared, adding, "I'd write down my scores, average them, and work on weak areas. That gave me a good estimate of where I stood."
Her dedication reflected in her results. She scored 98.8% in Class XII boards and stood third in Ludhiana district.
Still, AIR 1 in CUET was a "pleasant surprise."
"I was confident of getting into a top college but never imagined standing first in the country," she said modestly.
Ananya's interest in economics shaped her goal of pursuing the subject at India's premier institutions. "Economics is logical and fascinating. I enjoy microeconomics in particular," she said, adding that she draws inspiration from stalwarts like Dr Manmohan Singh and Amartya Sen, and dreams of contributing meaningfully to the field.
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Her father, chartered accountant Manav Jain, introduced her to commerce-related ideas early on through his professional network, but her passion was self-driven.
What sets Ananya apart was her clarity of priorities and a well-planned approach. "She always knew what she wanted," said her mother, Niti Jain. "She planned everything with discipline. Even before her Class XII boards, she was already mapping out her CUET strategy."
Her family supported her throughout the arduous preparation. Her elder brother, Gauransh Jain, who has completed B.Com (Hons), remained a pillar of support. "Whenever I was stressed, my brother was there for me. My parents and family members provided a calm and encouraging environment to me," she said.
Even as studies took centrestage, Ananya was, by no means, a bookworm. "It's important to relax and reset," she said.
Her go-to stress busters included Kathak dance and Madhubani painting, which she has pursued since Class VIII. "Madhubani is soothing and pattern-based. It helps me unwind and center myself," she said. Her advice to those appearing for the exam reflects her strategy. "Set your mind on the goal, be consistent, and work with determination.
But don't forget to take breaks and do what makes you happy. If you've studied for 7 to 8 hours, it's important to pause and recharge," she said.
Her mother Niti Jain is understandably proud of her gifted daughter. "She never had to be told when to study or take breaks. She managed everything so well on her own. She knows her priorities, but we made sure we were there when she needed and ensured a good environment for her to study."
Success Factors
Early preparation: Starting before Class XII gave her a strong foundation.
Discipline & time management: She made sure to balancie board exam preparation with CUET syllabus
Mock tests: Taking five mock tests daily and analysing scores helped her track progress and improve
Holistic approach: Engaging in Kathak dance and Madhubani painting helped her stay mentally refreshed
Support System: Her family provided emotional and logistical support throughout
Advice to Aspirants
--Set clear goals
--Be consistent and determined
--Take breaks and pursue hobbies to recharge