By team abhyaspeeth 
Abhyspeeth Desk
New Delhi: In a proud moment for Ladakh’s education landscape, the Druk Padma Karpo School — fondly known across India as Rancho’s School from the Aamir Khan-starrer 3 Idiots — has finally received CBSE affiliation after a wait of 24 years.
Established in 1998 in Shey, near Leh, the school became a household name after it featured in the climax of 3 Idiots, where Aamir Khan’s character ‘Rancho’ was shown inspiring a generation of curious learners. Since then, it has been a symbol of progressive education in the remote Himalayan region, blending Ladakhi culture with modern academic practices.
However, despite its growing reputation and strong educational values, the school faced years of bureaucratic hurdles. It struggled to obtain the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Jammu and Kashmir State Board of School Education (JKBOSE), which delayed its formal affiliation with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).
Now, with the CBSE’s official nod, Druk Padma Karpo School can offer its students a curriculum that aligns with national standards, opening new doors for higher education opportunities within India and abroad. Principal Mingur Angmo expressed optimism, saying the affiliation would allow students to seamlessly transition into competitive academic pathways without the barriers they previously faced.
At present, the school offers education up to Class 10 but plans to expand to Class 12 by 2028. Infrastructure development and teacher training are already underway to meet CBSE standards, ensuring that students receive both quality education and a nurturing environment.
Interestingly, the famous “Rancho Wall” — where Aamir Khan’s character was seen explaining scientific experiments — remains a popular attraction within the school campus, serving as a reminder of the school’s iconic place in pop culture and education.
The affiliation is not just a win for Druk Padma Karpo School, but a shining example of how perseverance and commitment can help remote institutions find a place on the national academic map. It sends a powerful message: dreams, much like Rancho taught us, can indeed be chased and fulfilled, no matter where you are.