Nine Takeaways from Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025

The 8th edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha (PPC) recently took place at Sunder Nursery in New Delhi. During this informal interaction, Prime Minister Modi engaged with students, discussing a wide range of topics. Some important lessons from the discussion are summarised below:

1. How To Stay Healthy?

• • Nutrition
    • Nutrition is not just about what you eat but also about how and when you eat. Consuming a balanced and nutritious meal is crucial for maintaining good health. The focus should be on eating wholesome foods at the right time and in the right manner. Understanding the purpose of eating and developing mindful eating habits contribute significantly to overall well-being.
  • The Role of Sleep & deep Breathing in Health
    • “Sleep plays a crucial role in nutrition, wellness, and overall fitness,” said the PM. Also, incorporating deep breathing/ pranayama into daily routines can help alleviate stress, manage anxiety and promote relaxation.
  • The Importance of Sunlight
    • Spending time in the sun daily is essential. Exposing the body to sunlight for 2, 5, or even 7 minutes in the early morning — deliberately and with purpose — helps in maintaining overall health. And it does not include merely glance at the sun while heading to school; the exposure should be intentional.

2. Handling Exam Pressure? 

Don’t let pressure get to you and concentrate solely on your studies. Set your daily targets, and work towards achieving them. Just like a batsman doesn’t let the crowd in the field disturb his concentration, and keeps his eyes and focus on the next ball, you should also focus on achieving your daily targets. Additionally, hold yourself accountable, challenge yourself constantly. “If you scored 30 marks last time, aim for 35 this time,” he said.

3. Managing Time Effectively

“Make a list of three things you want to complete tomorrow — do those three things no matter what. Then, the next day, check whether you did them or not,” said the PM. Reviewing this list daily helps build discipline and accountability.

4. Overcoming the Fear of Failure

“You have to decide whether you want to succeed only in exams or in life. One way to succeed in life is to make your failures your teacher,” said the PM. Reviewing mistakes, just as cricketers analyse their game footage, can help individuals improve, he explained. Life is not just about exams but about learning and growth. Instead of dwelling on shortcomings, one should focus on enhancing their unique qualities.

5. Developing a Winning Mindset

It means never giving up and challenging oneself by working on weaker areas rather than just focusing on strengths. “Never give up or bow down. Instead of spending more time on subjects we like and completely ignoring the ones we dislike, challenge yourself to do its reverse,” he advised students. Small personal challenges and gradual achievements help in building resilience and self-confidence.

6. How To Overcome Anxiety?

Students often face depression and anxiety while studying. PM Modi advised to share their doubts and concerns without hesitation. In earlier times, he said, families acted as support systems where children could talk to different members freely. PM then advised parents to avoid treating their children as mere achievements to showcase; and understand that every child has unique strengths, and identifying these strengths can lead to success.

He also told teachers to play a supportive role by encouraging students instead of comparing them. A positive environment fosters confidence and self-belief.

7. Understanding Leadership

Leadership is not about wearing a kurta-pyjama, putting on a jacket, and delivering grand speeches on big stages. True leadership emerges organically when others willingly follow someone’s guidance. A leader sets an example rather than merely correcting others. For instance, a class monitor who arrives on time and completes her homework inspires others to do the same. “To be a leader, you must learn teamwork. Patience is essential,” explains the PM, adding, “As a leader, you must always be there for your team. If they face a problem, you should be the first to reach out. By doing so, their confidence in you will grow.”

8. Learning Beyond the Classroom

“I always tell students, their families, and their teachers that if you confine children within four walls and imprison them with books, they will never truly grow. They need the open sky. They need space to explore their interests. If they pursue their passions wholeheartedly, they will also excel in their studies,” said the PM. He also gave an example of a student who was nearly expelled from school for lack of attention but later won a robotics competition because his talent was nurtured.

9. Making Decisions About the Future

Many students face dilemmas about career choices and whether to follow their family’s advice or their own aspirations. The best approach is to listen to family members with respect, seek their guidance, and then present one’s own thoughts in a logical and convincing manner. Over time, there are chances that parents may come to appreciate and support their child’s choices.

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