PM Modi Urges Teachers to Address Students' Screen Time, Drug Addiction

At his residence on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with 86 educators who had been chosen for the National Teachers' Awards. He asked them to look beyond the classroom, remain vigilant about drug addiction among students, and assist in reducing children's excessive screen time.

The Prime Minister was informed by a teacher from the Northeast that she teaches students public speaking.

"Confidence is the first requisite," she said in response to PM Modi's request for advice as though he were a student. She said, "I get confused, sir, before your aura," after the comment caused chuckles. "Is the aura necessary for becoming a good public speaker?" PM Modi joked in response.

PM Modi urges teachers to focus on students beyond academics

PM Modi was informed by another educator that she teaches students interview techniques. She added, "And, sir, every student at my school aspires to be a reporter."

Instead of concentrating solely on academic achievement, PM Modi challenged educators to consider how students' attitudes and daily lives had changed. He stated that teachers play an increasingly significant role in children's lives, alluding to the decline of joint families.

PM Modi expressed concern over children's increasing screen addiction and asked educators to promote physical games, sports, and creative activities. Additionally, he requested that educators talk to parents about their children's screen usage and whether they use mobile phones late at night.

In accordance with the National Education Policy, he said educators should assist students in acquiring values such as the dignity of labour and link what they learn in the classroom to practical skills.

82 teachers selected for awards

This year, 82 educators were selected for the National Teachers' Awards by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Higher Educational Institutions and Polytechnics, and the Department of School Education and Literacy.