Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday interacted with students from Coimbatore, Raipur, Devmogra and Guwahati in the second episode of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026, urging them to embrace discipline, self-belief and curiosity while preparing not only for examinations but for life itself.
Continuing the ninth edition of the flagship programme, the Prime Minister held informal discussions with “Exam Warriors” across different regions of the country, covering a wide range of topics including studies, startups, artificial intelligence, leadership, sports, environment, mental health and nation-building.
Welcoming students to the special multi-location edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha, PM Modi said the programme has always been a learning experience for him rather than a one-way interaction.
“I don’t see this as a teaching programme. I learn a lot from interacting with students,” he said.
Startups, studies and creativity
Responding to a question on startups during the Coimbatore interaction, the Prime Minister advised students to first identify what genuinely interests them.
“Decide what you want to do – technology, innovation, or solving practical problems. Form small teams with friends who understand finance or technology. There is no age limit to start something meaningful,” he said.
He encouraged students to visit existing startups, prepare project reports honestly and present them as school projects, adding that “whatever you study never goes to waste; it stays stored in your mind.”
On balancing studies with passion, PM Modi said academics and art should not be seen as separate.
“Don’t see studies and art as different. You can use art to relieve stress and fatigue from studies,” he said, advising students to set aside regular time for creative interests.
Small habits, big nation-building
Speaking on India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, PM Modi emphasised the power of small civic habits.
“Every small step will build Viksit Bharat @ 2047,” he said, urging citizens not to litter or spit on roads, to stop at red lights and to avoid wasting food.
“Don’t throw garbage on the road, don’t waste food, follow traffic rules, and support local products. These small steps matter the most,” he said, reiterating the message of being “vocal for local”.
Discipline vs motivation
On whether motivation or discipline matters more, the Prime Minister said discipline is fundamental.
“Discipline is the key; inspiration only adds to it,” he said, adding that inspiration without discipline often leads to disappointment.
“Inspiration without discipline becomes a burden,” he remarked, using the example of a farmer who feels inspired but fails to prepare his field.
AI, technology and learning
Addressing concerns around Artificial Intelligence, PM Modi cautioned students against becoming dependent on technology.
“Don’t become a slave to technology,” he said, while also acknowledging its value.
“Technology is a great teacher. Embrace it – but don’t let it replace your thinking,” he added, noting that jobs and tools will continue to evolve with time.
Travel, sports and leadership
Encouraging experiential learning, the Prime Minister advised students to travel with the mindset of a learner.
“Travel not just to see places, but to understand them like a student. India is incredible – travel and explore,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of sports, he said physical activity must be part of life.
“It is important to make sports a part of life,” PM Modi said, adding that true strength lies in balancing academics and physical fitness.
On leadership, he said initiative is the starting point.
“To become a leader, develop the mindset to take initiative,” he said, adding that leadership is about clear communication and understanding people.
“A good leader should communicate ideas clearly and effectively,” he noted.
Stress, health and self-reflection
On exam preparation, PM Modi reiterated the importance of practice.
“Practice by writing, not just reading,” he said, adding that consistent writing reduces stress.
He urged students to focus on health, advising breathing exercises and adequate sleep.
“One should do breathing exercises at least once a day,” he said, stressing that health must always come first.
On comparison, he cautioned against unhealthy competition.
“Instead of being pressured by comparison, try to learn and do better,” he said, urging parents not to encourage a comparative environment at home.
“Learn from people who are better than you,” he added.
Tribal communities and national progress
Interacting with students from Devmogra in Gujarat, the Prime Minister highlighted the contribution of tribal communities.
“India’s progress is enriched by its tribal communities,” he said, noting their role in protecting nature, serving in the armed forces and excelling in sports.
He also emphasised that strong infrastructure is essential for development.
“Strong infrastructure is the foundation for long-term development,” he said.
Belief in oneself
On confidence and fear, PM Modi underscored the importance of self-belief.
“Always believe in yourself,” he told students, recalling Swami Vivekananda’s iconic Chicago address as an example of inner strength overcoming fear.
Concluding the interaction, the Prime Minister said Pariksha Pe Charcha is not only about exams but about understanding life.
“Never settle in life, always strive for more. It’s important to reflect on ourselves,” he said, extending his best wishes to students across the country.
