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Pariksha Pe Charcha: PM Says Education Is for Life, Not Just Exams
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday advised students to stop treating exams as the sole purpose of education and instead focus on character, temperament, and long-term life goals.
Speaking at the annual Pariksha Pe Charcha, Modi said examinations are meant to help individuals understand themselves, not define their future.
“Education is not only for exams, but for life. Exams are meant to examine oneself. The ultimate goal is not marks, but holistic development,” the Prime Minister said.
‘I Count What Is Left, Not What Has Passed’
Sharing a personal anecdote, Modi said he believes in looking ahead rather than dwelling on the past.
“A leader once told me that I have turned 75. I replied, 25 years are still left. I don’t count what has passed; I count what lies ahead,” he said.
He urged students to adopt the same mindset and avoid wasting time over past failures or missed opportunities.
Warning Against Shortcut Learning
Cautioning students against shortcut learning, Modi said many suffer because they focus only on predicting exam patterns rather than understanding concepts.
“Good teachers teach the entire syllabus and show how it connects to life,” he said.
Using a cricket analogy, Modi explained that success cannot be achieved by strengthening only one skill.
“Just as a cricketer cannot succeed by strengthening only one muscle, students must develop mind, body and understanding together,” he added.
Marks Fade, Character Endures
The Prime Minister reminded students that exam toppers are often forgotten with time, but character and capability leave a lasting impact.
“Instead of tying your mind to marks, keep testing where your life is heading. Aim for the best possible life and treat education as one of the paths to reach there,” Modi said.
Dream Big, Act Consistently
Interacting directly with students, Modi addressed fears written on a blackboard and spoke about confidence, life choices, and ambition.
“Real confidence comes from inner truth,” he said, adding that comfort zones do not shape life.
He urged students to dream big, saying, “Not having a dream is a crime,” but stressed that dreams must be backed by action.
Modi advised students to write down their goals, keep them private, and work towards them step by step. Reading biographies, he said, helps young people realise that great leaders also began with humble beginnings, citing A P J Abdul Kalam as an example.
Cultural Touch at the Event
Modi welcomed students by wearing the Assamese gamosa, describing it as a cherished symbol of the Northeast and women’s empowerment. Students, teachers, and parents attended the interactive session, which focused on reducing exam stress and building confidence.
