The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi interacted with students today during the 9th edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha (PPC). The Prime Minister had an informal interaction with Exam Warriors, at his residence in Delhi.
Your Style, Your Pace
A Student from Gujarat asked that while parents worry for them and teachers support them, the issue arises when teachers suggest one study pattern, parents insist on another, and students follow a different trend, leaving them confused about which pattern is correct. The Prime Minister remarked that this continues throughout life, noting that even as Prime Minister people advise him differently. He highlighted that just as siblings at home have different eating patterns—some starting with vegetables, some with dal, some mixing everything together—everyone has their own way. He emphasized that enjoyment comes from following one’s own pattern. Shri Modi explained that some prefer studying at night, others early in the morning, and each has their own rhythm. He cautioned against dishonesty, mentioning how some students tell their mothers they will study in the morning but then avoid it. He stressed that students must trust their own pattern, listen carefully to suggestions, and add improvements only through personal experience, not merely because someone says so. He highlighted that when he began Pariksha Pe Charcha there was one pattern, but over time he improved it, even conducting sessions in different states, changing the format while retaining the core. Students noted that the Prime Minister’s nature was very friendly and that he mingled easily with them, explaining that everyone should listen to different patterns, take good qualities from each, focus on their own, and gradually strengthen it.
Interacting with the Prime Minister, another student who asked that often students cannot match the speed of school or teachers, and in trying to cover what is missed, they lose track of further chapters and fall behind. Shri Modi highlighted that teachers should keep their speed just one step ahead of the students, not too much, with the goal being within reach but not easily achievable. When the student recalled Exam Warrior mantra 26, “goal should be within reach but not easily achievable,” the Prime Minister praised the memory. He explained that if teachers go fifty steps ahead, students will give up, but like a farmer ploughs the field, teachers must plough the minds of students. He suggested that teachers should announce in advance the chapters to be taught in each week, so students can begin reading, asking, or searching online before the lesson. He emphasized that when the actual teaching happens, curiosity will arise, understanding will deepen, and focus will improve. He noted that if a chapter is very interesting, students will want to explore more, making revision stronger. The Prime Minister remarked that this is a simple method, and asked whether then the problem of teacher’s speed would remain. When the student replied yes, Shri Modi corrected, saying it would not, as students would no longer feel left behind because they had moved one step ahead of the teacher. He concluded, “Plough the mind, then connect the mind, and then place the subjects of study. You will always find students successful.” Students expressed that not everyone gets the opportunity to sit face-to-face with the Prime Minister, ask questions, and share conversations, and highlighted that he advised them to stay two steps ahead of teachers rather than two steps behind, ensuring they never fall behind.
A musical moment
A Student from Sikkim shared that she had composed a song in three languages—Hindi, Nepali, and Bengali—titled ‘Hamara Bharat Bhumi’, a patriotic song. The Prime Minister remarked with delight, asked if she enjoyed writing poetry, and upon her confirmation, encouraged her to recite. He lauded her and remarked on how she spoke of the unity of the nation—Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. Shri Modi then asked another student, Mansi, to sing. Mansi presented a song written by her mother, dedicated to students. The Prime Minister lauded her and asked to convey his congratulations to your mother. The student shared that she runs a YouTube channel, Facebook page, and Instagram account, with 1.5 lakh followers on Facebook. The Prime Minister expressed surprise and appreciation, and remarked that it was a matter of pride to meet such talented youth.
Shri Modi then welcomed all students, explaining that he had greeted them with Assam’s Gamosa, which he described as his most cherished possession. He highlighted that the Gamosa is a symbol of women’s empowerment in Assam and the North East, crafted at home by the region’s women, reflecting their strength and contribution. He said it was his heartfelt desire to gift the children the Gamosa as a mark of respect.
Preparation with Purpose
Student Sabavat Venkatesh then asked the Prime Minister whether skill or marks are more important, noting the confusion and fear among students. The Prime Minister remarked that balance is essential in life, whether between eating and sleeping, studying and playing, or skills and marks. He emphasized that leaning too far one way leads to imbalance, while proper balance ensures stability. He explained that skills are of two types—life skills and professional skills—and both are equally important. He stressed that no skill can develop without knowledge, observation, and study, and that skill begins with knowledge.
Shri Modi illustrated with examples: without life skills, one may struggle even in daily tasks like cooking or buying a ticket at a railway station. He emphasized that life skills must be fully achieved, including discipline, confidence, and adaptability. On professional skills, he explained that doctors must constantly update their skills, as books alone cannot make one a heart specialist—real skill comes from working with patients. Similarly, lawyers must practice under seniors to develop courtroom skills beyond knowing constitutional provisions. He underscored that professional skills require continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies, even at age 40, as advancements in medicine and other fields demand constant updating. He underlined that education and skill are twin siblings, inseparable, and that skill is indispensable in life.
Beyond marks and education as a medium
Further, a student from Sainik School, Imphal, Manipur, expressed admiration for Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, noting that his birthday coincides with the Prime Minister’s. Responding, Shri Modi remarked that he does not count the years that have passed but focuses on those that remain, urging students not to waste time dwelling on the past but to think of living what lies ahead.
When asked about exam preparation strategies based on past years’ questions, the Prime Minister highlighted that students often struggle when papers feel tough, not because they are outside the syllabus, but because focus is limited to repeated patterns. He noted that this issue existed even during his own student days and is sometimes perpetuated by teachers aiming only for marks. Shri Modi emphasized that good teachers ensure holistic development by covering the full syllabus and explaining its relevance to life. Using the example of a bowler in cricket, he explained that strengthening only shoulder muscles is insufficient; one must exercise, do yoga, strengthen the whole body and mind, adjust diet, and sleep properly. He stressed that education, similarly, is not only for exams but for life, and exams are meant to examine oneself. Marks are not the ultimate goal; complete development of life is. He advised that focusing solely on ten questions or patterns is limiting, and while they can be practiced, they should form only a small part of preparation, with the majority effort directed towards overall learning.
In response to a question on balancing study pressures, especially during pre-boards, the Prime Minister remarked that this is a common concern. He emphasized that education should not be seen as compulsion or burden but requires total involvement. Without full engagement, incomplete education cannot lead to success. He cautioned against the obsession with marks, asking whether anyone remembers the name of a student who scored highest marks last year in boards. When the student replied no, Shri Modi underscored that even if such achievements are praised briefly, they are soon forgotten, showing how little importance marks hold. He advised students not to tie their minds to marks but to focus on where their life is heading, continuously testing themselves not only in classrooms or exam halls but in life itself.
Less Pressure, More Learning
Continuing the interactive session, a student asked Prime Minister Modi how to remain calm and focused while studying, as many distracting thoughts arise and lessons are quickly forgotten. The Prime Minister responded by giving an example: “Just as you have come here today, even after 25 years if someone asks you about this program, will you forget or remember?” The student replied it would always be remembered as a special moment. Shri Modi explained that this is because the student is fully involved, thinking about the present, which ensures lasting memory.
He highlighted that memories remain when one is completely involved and when experiences are shared with friends. He advised students to make friends with those less confident and teach them, while also seeking guidance from brighter peers for a few minutes to validate their own understanding. He emphasized that this double benefit brings new ideas, opens the mind, and strengthens focus.
Another student from Punjab interacted and greeted Prime Minister Modi and asked about the challenge faced by Class 12 students who prepare simultaneously for board examinations and competitive exams, given their differing patterns and overlapping schedules. The Prime Minister acknowledged the concern, likening it to playing cricket and football at the same time, and emphasized that priority must be given to the Class 12 boards. He remarked that if students thoroughly absorb their syllabus, competitive exams will become a by-product without requiring separate effort. He further advised parents to allow children to blossom according to their capacity, ability, and interest.
Balancing marks, games and laughter
A student raised a question about pursuing a future in gaming despite societal pressure to focus only on studies. The Prime Minister explained that parents often discourage initially, but once success is achieved, they take pride and celebrate it. He encouraged the student to channel interest in gaming productively by creating games based on India’s rich stories such as Panchatantra or mythological events, and to share them on social media platforms to gain recognition. He highlighted that gaming is a skill requiring speed and alertness, which contributes to self-development, and advised focusing on building expertise in high-quality games. He cautioned against gambling in gaming, noting that laws have been enacted to prevent such practices, and stressed that gaming should be pursued as a constructive skill.
Students expressed excitement at visiting the Prime Minister’s residence, noting his friendly manner, genuine interest in their questions, and the thoughtful answers he provided.
Turning Fear into strength - managing stress, time & confidence
The students shared how reading Exam Warrior transformed their approach to examinations. One student remarked that earlier exams caused stress and fear, but after reading the book, exams had become a friend. Another highlighted that previously they felt anxious comparing themselves to others, but realized their own technique was unique and effective. A student noted that time management had always been a struggle, but after learning from Exam Warrior, they resolved to wake up early and manage tasks better.
Prime Minister Modi advised a simple method for time management: writing tasks in a diary before sleeping, tallying them the next day, and analyzing why some tasks were left incomplete. He emphasized that learning to use time productively removes pressure and fatigue, sharing that his own habit of proper time use keeps him stress-free despite numerous responsibilities.
Students expressed how their fear of subjects like mathematics had turned into interest, with one noting that maths was once a ghost but now had become a passion. The Prime Minister encouraged exploring Vedic Mathematics, describing it as enjoyable and magical, and suggested sharing such methods with friends to increase interest.
Another student shared that exam dates once caused fear, but the book’s mantra of treating exams as a celebration brought motivation. The Prime Minister advised that lessons from Pariksha Pe Charcha should also be shared with family members, as they can benefit equally.
Students reflected on how they overcame fear of low marks, realizing that marks are not everything and citing Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s example of persistence despite failures. The Prime Minister emphasized that reduced tension opens the mind to learning new skills such as singing, painting, or writing poems, and praised students who had begun creative pursuits.
Confidence gained from the book also helped students overcome fear of presentations. The Prime Minister explained that confidence comes from truth and experience, just as ordinary people can speak clearly when narrating events they witnessed. He stressed that students’ confidence arises from the truth of their own efforts and achievements.
One student shared that lengthy literature papers once caused panic, but now they practice writing faster and improving handwriting. The Prime Minister advised techniques such as pausing for 30 seconds, taking deep breaths, and resetting the mind before tackling papers, noting that mistakes occur not because of lack of knowledge but due to haste. He concluded that with proper techniques and confidence, students can overcome exam fear and succeed.
Holding on through the noise
A student asked how to study amidst household noise and lack of parental support. The Prime Minister recalled a video of a child reading atop a bullock cart loaded with goods, emphasizing that comfort is not essential for success. He highlighted that many top scorers in board exams come from small villages without luxuries, and shared the inspiring story of blind girls who won in cricket despite hardships. He remarked that life is shaped not by comfort zones but by the way one lives.
Another student from Tamil Nadu, raised the issue of guests disrupting exam preparation. The Prime Minister advised turning the situation around by asking guests about their own childhood experiences, thereby shifting the focus and easing pressure.
Big Dreams, Bigger Actions
A student from Ladakh asked whether children should dream big and how to begin fulfilling those dreams. The Prime Minister stated that not dreaming is a crime, but dreams must be backed by action. He explained that aspirations like becoming an astronaut require study, biographies, and focused interest, while cautioning against making dreams public to avoid ridicule. He encouraged students to write down their dreams and nurture them privately.
Responding to another query on daily habits to achieve big dreams, Shri Modi suggested reading biographies of great personalities. He explained that understanding their struggles and early steps helps students relate and gain confidence, showing them how to progress step by step.
A student then recited a heartfelt poem dedicated to the Prime Minister, describing him as the pride of India, a servant of humanity, and a leader carrying forward the dreams of the nation. The Prime Minister praised the poem warmly and lauded the student.
When PM became a teacher
Prime Minister Modi remarked that he envisions a developed India by 2047, coinciding with the centenary of independence, and emphasized that the youth, then aged 35 to 45, will be at the most crucial stage of their lives to reap the benefits of this vision. He highlighted that Mahatma Gandhi returned from Africa in 1915 and led the freedom struggle until 1947, and that sacrifices by leaders like Bhagat Singh inspired generations to fight for independence. He stressed that if such a monumental freedom could be achieved, then through collective effort a developed India can certainly be realized.
The Prime Minister urged students to write down their personal commitments towards developed India and asked them to identify five actions they could take, noting their responses on skill development, self-confidence, and use of indigenous products. He highlighted that adopting Swadeshi begins with preparing the mind and shedding the colonial mentality, pointing out how fascination with foreign goods persists even in schools. He directed students to list all items they use daily, identify foreign-made products, and gradually replace them with Indian alternatives, ensuring that within a year their households are filled with Indian goods. He asserted that if Indians themselves do not take pride in their own products, the world will not. He criticized the tendency to blame “Indian time” for delays, remarking that such attitudes demean the nation, and called for adherence to duty beginning with cleanliness. He stressed that developed nations appear clean not because of cleaners but because citizens do not litter, and urged that Indians must resolve never to compromise on cleanliness, even picking up litter themselves to instill shame in those who discard it. He underlined that maintaining health is also a duty, and if citizens fulfill such responsibilities, no force can stop India from becoming developed, with the youth enjoying the greatest benefits when they reach maturity. He asked whether work that yields fruit for them should be done, and students affirmed. He then highlighted the vast opportunities available to the current generation, particularly in technology, and remarked that while his era lacked such opportunities, today’s youth must use Artificial Intelligence wisely. He explained that using AI merely to summarize biographies adds little value, but asking AI to recommend biographies based on age and interests, then reading those books, leads to genuine development. He stressed that AI should be a tool to enhance strength and wisdom, not just entertainment. Students expressed appreciation for his guidance on AI usage, noting its relevance to their own technological pursuits.
The Prime Minister listened to a student’s flute performance in Carnatic classical style and praised it. He appreciated a handmade bouquet presented by a student, noting its traditional Uttarakhand significance during Basant Panchami, acknowledged references to Tripura traditions, and commended organic tea and Assamese gamocha gifted by students, encouraging them to continue writing poetry. He extended warm thanks and best wishes to all.
Sharing glimpses from the upcoming episode of Pariksha Pe Charcha, the PM remarked that many students had suggested holding “Pariksha Pe Charcha” across different parts of the country, which was reflected in this special episode. He emphasized that within families, one should learn from the good qualities of siblings, and that aspiring to greatness is not wrong but should not be tied to comparisons. He highlighted the importance of education in both personal and social life, while also stressing that sports must be an essential part of life. He invited students to share their thoughts and experiences openly.
The next episode will be aired on 9th February 2026 at 10 AM.
