New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday interacted with students from across the country during the ninth edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha, offering guidance on how to manage academics without sacrificing recreation or mental well-being as board examinations approach.
The annual interaction, broadcast live nationwide, saw the Prime Minister respond to questions on exam anxiety, preparation strategies and the pressure students often feel to constantly perform. Emphasising balance, he encouraged youngsters to treat studies as a meaningful pursuit rather than a source of fear, while also making time for hobbies, games and relaxation.
Sharing personal anecdotes, PM Modi reminded students that learning is not confined to textbooks. He advised them to use games and leisure activities as tools to refresh the mind, cautioning against both burnout and excessive screen time. “When the mind is calm, learning becomes effortless,” he noted, urging students to discover methods that suit their individual rhythms.
The 2026 edition witnessed record-breaking participation, with more than 4.5 crore registrations from students, parents and teachers — surpassing the previous year’s Guinness World Record. The scale of engagement highlighted the growing reach of the programme and its resonance with families navigating the pressures of competitive education.
This year’s Pariksha Pe Charcha revolved around a broad set of themes aimed at holistic development. Alongside the message of turning examinations into a positive experience, discussions also touched upon the legacy of India’s freedom fighters, environmental conservation, and the importance of cleanliness and civic responsibility.
Launched in 2018 at New Delhi’s Talkatora Stadium, Pariksha Pe Charcha has evolved into an annual platform where the Prime Minister connects directly with students appearing for board exams. Over the years, it has expanded to include parents and teachers, reinforcing the idea that managing exam stress is a shared responsibility.
As the examination season draws closer, the Prime Minister’s message remained consistent: success lies not just in marks, but in maintaining curiosity, confidence and a healthy balance between effort and enjoyment.
