Prime Minister Connects with Students Nationwide
Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with students, teachers, and parents across the country during the ninth edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha (PPC), turning the annual pre-exam conversation into a national dialogue on confidence and well-being. Conducted simultaneously across multiple cities and broadcast widely, the event once again sought to recast examinations as opportunities for growth rather than sources of anxiety. With participation from millions of students, PPC has evolved into a widely anticipated fixture in India’s academic calendar.
Origins and Evolution of Pariksha Pe Charcha
Launched in 2018, Pariksha Pe Charcha began as a platform for the Prime Minister to directly address students ahead of board examinations. Over the years, it has expanded in scale and scope, incorporating parents and teachers while reaching audiences through television, digital platforms, and interactive online initiatives.
The programme is rooted in the idea of reducing exam-related stress and encouraging a more balanced approach to learning. It complements broader educational reforms that emphasise holistic development, creativity, and critical thinking over rote memorisation. Through anecdotes, practical advice, and interactive sessions, PPC has sought to humanise the examination experience and create a supportive national conversation around student well-being.
Messaging and Themes
Each edition of PPC focuses on themes such as self-confidence, time management, and resilience. The latest session emphasised the importance of viewing exams as milestones rather than obstacles. Students were encouraged to focus on self-discovery, manage expectations, and avoid unhealthy comparisons. Parents and teachers were urged to create supportive environments that nurture individuality and reduce undue pressure.
The programme also highlights broader values, including environmental responsibility, disciplined use of technology, and the importance of pursuing personal interests alongside academics. By integrating these messages into a discussion about exams, PPC aims to foster a more holistic educational culture.
Impact on Student Mental Health
One of the most significant aspects of PPC has been its focus on mental health. By acknowledging stress and anxiety as common experiences, the initiative helps normalise conversations around emotional well-being. Students often report feeling reassured by the knowledge that exam-related pressure is widely shared, reducing the sense of isolation that can accompany academic stress.
The programme’s emphasis on mindset—encouraging students to see exams as learning experiences rather than defining moments—has contributed to more positive attitudes toward assessments. Practical suggestions on managing time, maintaining balance, and prioritising health have also resonated with participants.
Parents and teachers, too, gain insights into how their expectations influence student stress levels. PPC has encouraged many to adopt more empathetic approaches, fostering supportive home and classroom environments. While large-scale quantitative studies on mental health outcomes remain limited, anecdotal evidence and participation trends suggest that the initiative has helped reduce exam-related anxiety and promote open dialogue about emotional well-being.
A Cultural Shift in Exam Discourse
Nearly a decade since its inception, Pariksha Pe Charcha has grown into more than an annual event—it has become part of a broader effort to reshape India’s academic culture. By reframing exams as opportunities for learning and growth, the initiative contributes to a gradual shift away from fear-driven education. Its continued relevance lies in its ability to bring students, families, and educators into a shared conversation about resilience, confidence, and well-being. As academic pressures evolve, platforms that prioritise mental health and balanced learning will remain crucial in shaping a healthier educational environment.
(With agency inputs)
