From oratory to screen time, PM & teachers exchange notes

New Delhi - Prime Minister Narendra Modi received public-speaking advice from a National Teachers Award-winning teacher during an interaction that touched on screen addiction, drug abuse, and the importance of preserving childhood. Modi had asked the teacher how she would advise her student to become a great orator. Her response was, "Sorry, sir. Seeing your aura, my aura went down a little."

The interaction took place at Modi's Lok Kalyan Marg residence on the eve of Teachers' Day. One teacher shared that she was teaching children how to conduct interviews like journalists, leading to children questioning their parents at home about cooking methods, decision-making, and expenses. The teacher added that all the children in her school now aspire to become reporters.

Modi urged teachers not to judge children solely based on their academic performance. He emphasized that children are naturally curious, and teachers should nurture and guide this curiosity. Excessive screen time was likened to addiction by the PM, and he suggested that children could be drawn away from screens by developing an interest in sports and creative activities.

Addressing drug abuse, Modi stated that the issue is not limited to large cities and universities, and teachers must spread awareness, monitor behavioral changes, and assist those affected. When a teacher discussed educating women on breast cancer, Modi referenced a similar awareness campaign in his Lok Sabha constituency, Varanasi. He noted that more women are now participating in check-ups and that a Guinness World Record has been set for the highest number of screenings in a day.

Turning to the National Education Policy, Modi called for teachers to move beyond classroom learning. Children should be connected with real-world skills and taught values like the dignity of labor. The PM emphasized that the greatest contribution teachers can make is preserving childhood in students.