In a vibrant display of cultural appreciation and encouragement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed students to the 'Pariksha Pe Charcha' (PPC) 2026, with a traditional 'Gamosa', a symbol of Assamese culture often associated with respect and welcome. The ninth edition of this annual event, designed to alleviate exam-related stress and foster a more relaxed approach to education, saw massive participation with over 4.5 crore registrations, including over 4.19 crore students, nearly 24.84 lakh teachers, and around 6.15 lakh parents.
Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026 was held at 10 am today. The Prime Minister engaged with students at his residence and also interacted with students in Devmogra in Gujarat, Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu, Raipur in Chhattisgarh and Guwahati in Assam. The program was broadcast on various platforms, including Narendra Modi's YouTube channel, Doordarshan, and multiple OTT platforms.
During the session, Modi emphasized the importance of board exams, describing them as a foundation for future opportunities and urging students to approach them with disciplined preparation and conceptual clarity. He noted that a strong understanding of the board syllabus can significantly aid in preparing for competitive exams, reducing the need for extra effort. "Board exams should not be taken lightly," he stated, highlighting that understanding the syllabus well reduces stress and duplication of effort.
The Prime Minister cautioned students against wasting time online, particularly on gaming, simply because data is inexpensive in India. He advised them to focus on developing life skills and educational abilities. While acknowledging that gaming can enhance alertness and self-development, he warned against its addictive nature and the dangers of online gambling, against which he has enacted laws.
'Pariksha Pe Charcha' has evolved into a significant platform for students, parents, and teachers to discuss academic stress and explore solutions. The program has seen a steady increase in engagement over the years, with registrations rising from 38.8 lakh in 2023 to 3.53 crore in 2025, earning it a Guinness World Record.
The Prime Minister also shared tips on managing exam stress, maintaining focus, and pursuing hobbies and passions. He stressed that education should not be a burden but should involve everyone fully, as half-hearted education does not lead to a successful life. Modi encouraged students to set achievable goals and tame their minds to facilitate effective learning.
'Pariksha Pe Charcha' aligns with the Prime Minister's book 'Exam Warriors', which promotes a refreshing approach to education that prioritizes knowledge and holistic development. The initiative seeks to create an environment where every child's individuality is celebrated and encouraged.