Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday advised students to maintain balance in their lives, focus on all-round development and use technology including artificial intelligence (AI) responsibly, as he interacted with students during the ninth edition of the Prakash Pay Discussion (PPC).
The next episode will be aired on February 9 at 10 am. (ANI file image)Welcoming the students with Gamosa of Assam, PM Modi described it as “a symbol of women’s empowerment in the Northeast, especially in Assam, as women weave it at home with love and dedication…”
Addressing the students ahead of the board exams, PM Modi stressed that education should not be considered a burden and exams are only a means of growth.
“Exams should never be the ultimate goal. Education is only a means of our development… Instead of focusing on marks, everyone should focus on where they have achieved in life,” he said.
Responding to students’ concerns about conflicting advice from parents and teachers, PM Modi said every student has a unique style.
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Also read: Pariksha Pay Discussion 2026 6.76 crore program participants across India
“Believe in your pattern and follow it, keeping in mind all the advice that comes your way,” he said, encouraging students to gradually improve through their experiences.
On academic pressure, PM Modi said teachers should set their pace just a little ahead of students so that learning goals are “within reach but not easily achievable”.
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He also suggests that teachers announce lessons in advance to increase students’ preparation, curiosity and confidence.
He also called for a balance between studies, sleep, food and entertainment.
“If you lean too much to one side, you’re bound to fall… Everything in life needs balance,” he said while describing gaming as a skill that can support personality development but caution against overindulgence and gambling.
Responding to a student’s question on balancing board and competitive exams, PM Modi advised students to prioritize the Class 12 board exams and focus on strong fundamentals.
He said that if the syllabus is understood thoroughly, “competitive exams will become a by-product without the need for separate efforts,” while comparing the preparation to “playing cricket and football at the same time”.
During the conversation, students also asked PM Modi about skills versus marks and handling exam pressure.
Prime Minister Modi said that education and skills are “twin siblings” and advised students to prioritize holistic education instead of preparing only for predictable exam patterns. He advises students to learn collaboratively by teaching peers and seeking guidance from bright classmates.
Prime Minister Modi encouraged students to back their aspirations with action and continuous learning.
Linking education to nation building, PM Modi reiterates one of his “visions”.Vixit IndiaBy 2047, urge students to adopt cleanliness, develop skills and use indigenous products.
He asked the youth to “use AI intelligently to enhance your intelligence and personality” and to consider technology as a tool for real education rather than mere entertainment.
PPC 2026 saw over 4.5 crore registered participants on the MyGovIndia portal from December 1, 2025 to January 11, 2026 and an additional 2.26 crore individuals participated in various school-level activities from January 12 to January 23, taking the overall participation to 6.76 crore this year.
Interactive sessions with students were held this year at Devmogra in Gujarat, Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu, Raipur in Chhattisgarh, Guwahati in Assam and Prime Minister’s Official Residence 7 on Lok Kalyan Marg in Delhi.
next episode Aired on February 9 at 10 am.
