Teachers’ Day 2026: President Murmu urges educators to build ‘nation first’ mindset

New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday asked teachers to shape generations of students who develop a scientific outlook and move forward with the spirit of "nation first". In an article written on the occasion of Teachers' Day, she said it is the sacred duty of teachers to guide their students to be good human beings.

Students who achieve prosperity and glory while remaining ethical in their thoughts and actions are living embodiments of a teacher's success, the president said. She said the country is moving steadily towards the goal of becoming a developed nation with social inclusion at the core.

Murmu urges ‘nation first’ approach in education

"As we advance on this journey, I want our teachers to shape generations of students who value the richness of our cultural heritage and traditions; who develop a scientific outlook and work for the welfare of humanity; who uphold the ideal of Antyodaya; who protect the environment and all living creatures; who strive for individual and collective excellence, and who move forward with the spirit of 'nation first'," President Murmu said.

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In the article titled 'Shaping Minds; Building the Future', she said parents and guardians repose the highest trust in teachers when they send their children to study. "They believe that the teachers will treat the children as their own and take utmost care of the child's safety and development.

Murmu stresses teachers’ duty to nurture students

It is the dharma of every teacher to uphold this sacred trust placed in them," the president said. A teacher's attitude, conduct and behaviour should not generate fear and anxiety in the children, break their morale or allow any sense of inferiority to develop, she said, adding that good teachers help their students become the best versions of themselves.

To encourage independent thinking in students, to ignite their curiosity, to promote the tendency to ask questions, to sharpen their capacity for argument and judgement, and to help them grow into independent individuals -- these are among the most useful and rewarding dimensions of teaching, the president said.

President highlights teachers’ role in unlocking potential

"It is only through such inspiring education that we will raise generations of successful entrepreneurs, brilliant scientists, creative artists and citizens capable of finding innovative solutions to emerging challenges," she said. Acknowledging the role of her teachers, President Murmu said a loving and dedicated teacher can awaken limitless potential and inspiration within a student.

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Strengthened by that encouragement, students develop the courage to face life's toughest challenges and the confidence to pursue the loftiest of goals, she said, adding that teachers do "far more than teach a curriculum".

"To every citizen, I make an appeal: always hold our committed and sincere teachers in the highest esteem. I ardently wish that with the contribution of our dedicated teachers, India continues to learn and goes on to lead," the president said.