NEW DELHI: Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025 marked a departure from tradition with an engaging open-air conversation held at Sunder Nursery, replacing the usual auditorium arrangement. Students had the opportunity to engage in a candid dialogue with PM Narendra Modi on various topics including nutrition, stress, technology, and personal challenges linked to examinations.
Modi shared, "If I weren’t the PM, I would have loved to work in the skill development ministry." He encouraged the youth to "break down hierarchical barriers" and highlighted that "True leadership involves inspiring and guiding others, rather than merely issuing commands."
Emphasizing the importance of skill development, Modi stated, "Degrees hold value, but skills make you invaluable." He recounted instances of young entrepreneurs and innovators who transformed their passions into professions, underscoring that adaptability and ongoing learning are critical to success in today’s world. "You are fortunate to be growing in an age filled with advanced technology… but it is your choice to use it wisely."
Modi addressed a frequent concern among parents, asking, "Are you spending hours scrolling through reels, or are you using technology to learn something new?" He reassured the audience that technology should be viewed as a tool rather than a storm that could overwhelm them. "When used correctly, it can empower you," he said.
The interaction saw students participate in a warm and spontaneous exchange with Modi. "In the past, we interacted with him from a stage, but this feels more personal," remarked one student. Another noted, "There were no scripts or formalities—just an open dialogue. It makes us feel appreciated."
A variety of subjects were discussed, from language and culture to health and mindfulness. Akanksha from Kerala expressed her admiration for Hindi, prompting the PM to share a poem. Modi stated, "Society mistakenly equates success with exam results. True success stems from perseverance. A skilled cricketer focuses on the ball, disregarding the distractions in the stadium. Likewise, students should prioritize learning over stress."
Traditional food customs were also celebrated as students savored til-gud (sesame-jaggery) sweets. "Just as we offer hospitality to guests, he did the same for us," a student commented. The Prime Minister stressed the significance of mindful living by asking, "Do you know how many teeth we possess?" to underscore the necessity of proper chewing.
Regarding exam-related stress, he reassured the students, stating, "Marks do not define your worth." Modi differentiated between knowledge and examinations, asserting that one should not perceive exams as the ultimate measure of life.
Speaking about stress, he likened it to a pressure cooker, urging students to articulate their emotions openly. He pointed out that "Depression often arises from inadequate communication," and encouraged them to welcome challenges: "Every obstacle presents an opportunity for growth."
Modi advised students to strike a balance between hobbies and studies, using the analogy: "When exams approach, do you stop spending time with your pet dog? No, because it brings you joy. Similarly, hobbies refresh your mind and maintain equilibrium."
He urged parents not to use their children as benchmarks for comparison, advising them to support rather than judge. When asked about advice for diligent students who might not achieve success, Modi suggested, "Instead of fixating on what someone lacks, focus on their strengths. Encouragement can make them feel valued. Students should also engage in creative writing-like poetry or essays—to voice their thoughts."
Reiterating the value of curiosity and lifelong learning, he urged students to "Stay curious. Never stop questioning. Learning goes beyond exams; it is a continuous journey." He emphasized the distinction between knowledge and examinations, reflecting on India’s tradition of inquiry and exploration, and noted that great thinkers expand boundaries by asking the right questions.
As the event drew to a close, PM Modi humorously remarked, "Don’t act bossy at home just because you’ve had a direct interaction with the Prime Minister!"
