'Keep Childhood Alive': PM Narendra Modi Urges Teachers To Tackle Screen Addiction, Drug Abuse & Nurture Student Creativity On Teachers’ Day | Watch

On September 5, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored the National Teachers Award winners at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg in New Delhi. During the interaction, PM Modi encouraged educators to address contemporary issues such as screen addiction, drug abuse, and nurturing student creativity. The Prime Minister engaged in light-hearted exchanges with the awardees, discussing innovative teaching methods and public speaking skills.

One teacher shared how she taught students to conduct interviews, leading PM Modi to humorously ask if they were also interviewing their parents at home. Another teacher, who mentors students in public speaking, was asked how to become a skilled orator. Teachers emphasized the importance of confidence and admitted to feeling nervous themselves.

The Prime Minister urged teachers to identify and develop hidden talents in students, noting that every child possesses unique abilities. He also highlighted the Eklavya schools initiative, which transformed the aspirations of first-generation learners. A teacher working on breast cancer awareness among women shared her efforts in schools, including primary screening and early intervention.

PM Modi shared his own campaign for breast cancer awareness in Kashi and its success. Addressing contemporary concerns, the Prime Minister cautioned about the rising screen time among children and suggested sports and creative engagement as alternatives. He also emphasized the importance of vigilance against drug abuse, urging teachers to watch for behavioral changes in students.

PM Modi concluded by calling for a broader approach to education, urging teachers to engage with children beyond books and the syllabus. He wished the awardees to ensure that childhood remains alive, as teachers play a crucial role in preserving this aspect of a child's life.