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Education –  Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday delivered a wide-ranging message to students, urging them to use their time and digital access responsibly while giving priority to learning and personal growth. Speaking during an interaction with students at the ninth edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026, he cautioned against treating education as a burden and stressed the importance of meaningful engagement with studies.

Modi underlined that learning must be approached with sincerity and interest, noting that half-hearted efforts rarely lead to long-term success. Addressing students from different parts of the country who had gathered at his residence, he said education should inspire curiosity and confidence rather than pressure and fear.

Importance of Managing Time and Attention

The Prime Minister advised students not to spend excessive hours online simply because internet data is affordable. He said easy access to technology should be used to gain knowledge and skills, not to distract from academic and personal responsibilities. According to him, discipline of the mind is the first step toward academic focus, followed by setting achievable yet challenging goals.

He explained that success comes when students train their minds to concentrate and then direct that focus toward subjects that truly matter for their future. Clear thinking, he added, helps students remain consistent and motivated through their learning journey.

Caution Against Gaming for Entertainment

Modi also raised concerns about excessive gaming done purely for leisure. While acknowledging that many students are drawn to online games, he warned that using them only to pass time can lead to wasted potential. He was particularly firm in discouraging gaming linked to financial stakes, calling it harmful and socially damaging.

He reminded students that the country does not support gambling practices and noted that legal steps have been taken to curb online gambling. At the same time, he clarified that gaming can be constructive when approached as a skill-based activity, as it involves alertness, speed, and strategic thinking that can contribute to self-improvement.

Respecting Individual Learning Styles

The Prime Minister emphasized that every individual has a unique way of studying and working. He said some students perform better in the early hours of the day, while others find late-night study more effective. What matters, he said, is recognizing one’s own strengths and patterns.

Sharing a personal example, Modi noted that even as Prime Minister, he often receives advice on how to work, but ultimately follows a method that suits him best. He encouraged students to listen to guidance, assess its value, and adopt it only if it genuinely helps them progress.

Teachers, Balance, and Skill Development

Modi highlighted the role of teachers, saying their responsibility is to stay a step ahead of students to guide them effectively. He urged students to maintain a healthy balance between studies, rest, hobbies, and skill-building activities.

He explained that growth depends on both life skills and professional skills, which develop together. Knowledge, he said, is the foundation on which all skills are built, and learning should extend beyond textbooks and classrooms.

Looking Ahead Without Dwelling on the Past

Recalling a birthday message from a senior leader, Modi shared how he was reminded to focus on the years ahead rather than those already lived. Using this as a lesson for students, he advised them not to remain stuck on past failures or achievements, but to concentrate on future possibilities and goals.

Pariksha Pe Charcha Continues to Evolve

The Prime Minister noted that Pariksha Pe Charcha has changed in format over the years while retaining its original purpose. This edition included events across multiple states, reflecting its expanding reach. The interaction was also screened at the Bal Yogi Auditorium within the Parliament complex.

Launched in 2018, the initiative began as a small interactive programme and has since grown into one of India’s largest education-focused engagements. Participation has risen sharply over the years, with the ninth edition crossing 4.5 crore registrations, surpassing previous records and earning global recognition.