ArdorComm Media News Network
September 7, 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday called upon teachers to remain vigilant about issues such as drug abuse and excessive screen time among students, while encouraging them to support children through sports, physical activities and creative pursuits.
Interacting with National Award-winning teachers at his Lok Kalyan Marg residence, Modi stressed that educators should look beyond academic performance and pay close attention to students’ behaviour, habits and overall well-being.
Addressing the growing concern over drug use among young people, the Prime Minister said identifying affected students can be particularly challenging in metropolitan areas and large universities. He urged teachers to take proactive steps to create awareness and carefully observe any noticeable changes in students’ behaviour.
Modi also encouraged teachers to move beyond textbooks and syllabuses and take an interest in the broader lives of their students. He emphasised the importance of preserving childhood by giving children opportunities to participate in activities that promote physical, social and creative development.
The Prime Minister further highlighted the need to address excessive phone and screen usage among students. Rather than simply restricting screen time, he suggested that teachers and schools encourage greater participation in outdoor sports, physical games and creative hobbies, which could help students naturally spend less time on digital devices.
Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu marked National Teachers’ Day 2026 with an article titled “Shaping Minds; Building the Future”, in which she highlighted the responsibility of teachers to nurture students into responsible and compassionate human beings.
Murmu said educators should help shape generations that respect India’s cultural heritage, develop a scientific outlook, contribute to human welfare, uphold the principle of Antyodaya, protect the environment and strive for both individual and collective excellence, while keeping the nation first.
The President also underlined the trust placed in teachers by parents and guardians when they send their children to school. She said educators have a duty to protect students’ safety, development and dignity and should ensure that their words and conduct do not create fear, anxiety or feelings of inferiority among children.
As part of this year’s National Teachers Awards, Murmu honoured 82 teachers and educators from three departments in the presence of Education Minister Pralhad Joshi. The awardees included 48 teachers from the Department of School Education and Literacy, 21 educators from higher educational institutions and polytechnics, and 13 skill trainers from the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
Source: Indian Express