Pariksha Pe Charcha, held annually since 2018 at the onset of exam seasons, is an interactive live session in townhall format featuring PM Narendra Modi, students, parents, and teachers.
Sharing an example, he said, “Students can ask AI for recommendations on biographies to read. Then, they can go to the market and buy one of those books."(Photo: Social Media)
On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in an interactive session with students across the country during the Pariksha Pe Charcha (PPC) 2026, the ninth edition of the event. More than 4.5 crore students registered for this education engagement initiative, where PM Modi shared insights and suggestions on tackling exams, time management, chasing dreams, and professional growth. Later, students sang self-composed songs for him.
PM Modi informed students, “Not dreaming is a crime. One should definitely dream, but merely humming about dreams never works. Therefore, one should consider action as paramount in life.” He also addressed the role of technology and artificial intelligence in students’ lives, saying AI should be used as a support tool rather than a crutch. Sharing an example, he said, “Students can ask AI for recommendations on biographies to read. Then, they can go to the market and buy one of those books. This way, you are using AI for your benefit, not becoming dependent on it.”
The Prime Minister urged students to be mindful of how they use gaming in their daily lives. He warned against treating it as casual entertainment, simply because internet access was affordable. He cautioned that turning gaming into a money-making activity often leads to losses, and said that online gambling should not be promoted.
At the same time, PM Modi said gaming itself is not inherently harmful. He pointed out that it requires quick thinking and sharp reflexes, and added that when used wisely, it can help improve alertness and contribute to personal development. “Don't waste your time just because mobile data is cheap in India, focus on gaming as a skill and build your expertise in it," PM said during Pariskha Pe Charcha.
The Prime Minister said education should not be a burden, saying, “Ultimate goal cannot be results in an exam, but all-round development in life.” Further, he said that everyone should be totally involved, as half-hearted education does not make life successful.
“Tame the mind, then connect the mind, and then keep the subjects you need to study. Then you will always find the student successful,” he said, adding, “Don’t think about the past. Try to live what is in front of you”.
PM Modi told students that there was no fixed rule for studying and urged them to trust what works best for them. While interacting with students, he said that advice should be heard, but not followed blindly.
“Listen to everyone’s advice, but change your pattern only when you want to,” PM Modi said, adding that study routines can differ from person to person. “Some people study better in the morning, some at night. Whatever suits you, believe in that. But also take advice, and if that benefits you, then only add it to your life structure.”
He further stressed the importance of mental clarity before making academic choices. “Cultivate the mind, then connect with your inner self, and then choose whatever subjects you want to study. Then you will always find the student to be successful,” he said.
