‘Focus on skills, not marks’: PM Modi interacts with students at 9th Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026

Interacting with students at the 9th edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha (PPC 2026), Prime Minister Narendra Modi advised students to limit their time on the internet noting its easy availability and affordability in the country. He instead encouraged students to focus on sharpening their life skills and strengthening their educational skill set.

Students should not take education as a burden and must be engaged with it completely, as “half-hearted education” does not lead to success in life.

"Our goal should be such that it is within reach, but not easily attainable. Tame the mind, then connect the mind, and then keep the subjects you need to study. Then you will always find the student successful," PM said.

Cautioning students against online gaming and gambling, he warned them against indulging in such activities just to pass time due to cheap data availability in India.

Also read Himachal Pradesh CM bans mobile phones in all schools from March 1

Do not indulge in online gaming for money: PM

"You are interested in gaming but don't indulge in it for passing time just because data is cheap in India. Don't do it for fun. Those who indulge in gaming for money will only be ruined. We do not have to encourage gambling in the country. I have made a law against online gambling," he added.

However, the Prime Minister also acknowledged that gaming can be a skill, as it requires speed and alertness and is a good tool for self-development.

PM Modi urged students to follow their own pattern or style of functioning. Explaining that some people study better in the morning, while others prefer night, he said that take advice but only implement it in life if that benefits them.

"When I started 'Pariksha Pe Charcha', there was a pattern. Now, gradually, I am changing it. This time, I did it in different states as well. I also changed my pattern, but didn't abandon the original pattern," he said.

Students must balance the keys to growth, which are studies, rest, skills and hobbies. PM Modi expressed that a teacher's effort should be to ensure that students’ speed is such that his own speed is one step ahead of theirs.

"Even there are two skills: life skills and professional skills. I say both go hand in hand. So, skill starts with knowledge," he added.

PM Modi concluded by saying that students should not focus on marks, but on self-improvement, and personal growth, which should extend beyond classrooms and exams.