New Delhi (India), February 10: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed students during the 8th edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha on Monday, offering valuable insights on handling failure, utilizing technology, and the importance of holistic development.
Turning Failures into Lessons
Prime Minister Modi began by urging students to not be discouraged by failures, but instead, view them as opportunities for learning. He emphasized that failing an exam does not define one’s future, stating, “A student’s life does not stop if they fail an exam. One must decide whether they want to succeed in life or books… You should turn your failures into your teachers.”
The Significance of Technology
Modi further highlighted the role of technology in shaping the lives of students today. “You are fortunate to be born in an era of technology, and our focus should be on understanding technology and making optimum use of it,” he said, urging students to utilize technological advancements to their advantage.
Holistic Development Beyond Textbooks
During the interaction, the Prime Minister stressed that education should go beyond textbooks. “Students are not robots. We study for our holistic development… Students cannot grow if they are trapped in books. Students need to do their favorite activities; only then can they perform well in exams,” he explained. He also encouraged students to explore their passions and not be solely focused on exams.
Time Management and Self-Improvement
On time management, PM Modi offered a masterclass, advising students to focus on the present and make the most of their time. “One should think about how they can utilize their time the most… A student should focus on the present,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and task management.
He also suggested developing the habit of writing, giving the example of writing about the positive qualities of friends or acquaintances. “It will help you express your thoughts and stay connected,” he added.
Support for Unique Interests and Career Paths
PM Modi also spoke to the students and their parents about the pressure to meet societal expectations. “Parents should accept the uniqueness of their child. We should focus on our skills to reduce the pressure,” he advised, encouraging parents to allow children to follow their interests without being forced into careers they do not desire, such as the typical paths of engineering or medicine.
Leadership and Respect
On leadership, the Prime Minister shared his thoughts on self-improvement and leading by example: “A leader becomes a leader when he practices what he preaches and understands the issues of the people… Respect cannot be demanded…You have to change yourself and your behavior will gain respect for you,” he emphasized.
Pariksha Pe Charcha Overview
Since 2018, PM Modi has hosted Pariksha Pe Charcha (PPC) annually, providing guidance to students, teachers, and parents on managing exam stress and navigating academic pressures. The event is organized by the Department of School Education and Literacy under the Ministry of Education.
The first three editions were held in New Delhi, followed by an online format during the COVID-19 pandemic. The event returned to a town hall setting for the fifth, sixth, and seventh editions, held at Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi.