Teachers’ Day 2026: PM Modi interacts with national award-winning teachers; pays homage to S Radhakrishnan

On the occasion of Teachers’ Day 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appreciated the contribution of teachers to our society while interacting with the national award winners. India celebrates Teachers’ Day on September 5 by paying tribute to Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, India's first Vice President and second President, on his birth anniversary.

Radhakrishnan was born on September 5, 1888, and went on to become a renowned philosopher, scholar, and academic before serving as India's President from 1962-1967.

PM Modi praised educators who inspire dreams, shape futures and ignite curiosity among youth of the country.

Notably, President Droupadi Murmu also greeted teachers across the country and paid tribute to Radhakrishnan. President Murmu reaffirmed that teachers play an important role in strengthening character of the students and guiding become good human beings.

Why do we celebrate Teachers’ Day 2026?

The story goes that when some of Radhakrishnan’s students and friends asked to celebrate his birthday, he asked instead that the day be observed as a tribute to teachers everywhere, which is how September 5 became India's Teachers' Day, dedicated to honoring the contribution of teachers to society.

In schools, special morning assemblies are conducted where students and teachers talk about Radhakrishnan's life and philosophy, along with speeches on the importance of teachers in shaping society.

Also, Union home minister Amit Shah extended his wishes to teachers across the country and recalled Radhakrishnan’s legacy as an inspiration for us to build a knowledge-rich India.

This year, 21 teachers of higher education institutions (HEIs) from IITs, medical colleges and polytechnics and 48 teachers from states, UTs, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS), Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS), and Sainik Schools were selected for National Teachers Awards 2026.