During the 9th edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with students from across India, offering insights on managing exam stress, nurturing personal growth, and contributing to nation-building. The interactive session, held at the Prime Minister's residence in New Delhi, saw students sharing their concerns about studies, skills, confidence, technology, and their future aspirations.
In a notable moment, PM Modi addressed the topic of age and perspective, stating, "When told I'm 75, I said 25 years left," encouraging students to focus on the future and emphasizing the importance of their role in shaping a developed India by 2047. He reminded them that in 2047, they would be around 35-40 years old and urged them to work towards building a "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India) and to support domestic manufacturing by using Indian products.
The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of balancing studies, rest, skills, and hobbies. "There should be a balance in everything in life. If you lean too much to one side, you will surely fall," he said. He highlighted that both life skills and professional skills are equally important, noting that skills begin with knowledge, learning, and observation. Modi also advised students not to dwell on past mistakes but to focus on the future, emphasizing that life is shaped by what lies ahead.
Addressing the pressures of exam-centric education, PM Modi encouraged students to view examinations as festivals of learning rather than sources of fear. He advised them to trust their own learning patterns and underscored that education should be a lifelong process, not just an exercise for exams. He cautioned against an excessive focus on marks and repeated question patterns, advocating for overall development in life. "Marks are not everything. What matters is where your life is heading," he said, urging students to stay confident, dream big, and support their aspirations with consistent action.
PM Modi also addressed the role of technology, describing AI as a powerful tool that can enhance human capabilities when used wisely. He advised students to harness AI to build wisdom and skills, not merely for shortcuts or entertainment. He also touched upon the importance of cleanliness, responsible behavior, discipline and civic sense for national progress.
During the session, PM Modi welcomed students with the traditional Assamese 'Gamosa', describing it as a symbol of women's empowerment in the Northeast. He also shared light moments with students who recited poems and sang self-composed songs.