PM Modi Champions Swadeshi Lifestyle and Tech Skills in Multi-City Pariksha Pe Charcha
In a groundbreaking edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with students from across India, focusing on the themes of swadeshi and the importance of developing skills, including artificial intelligence and gaming. The event, held in multiple cities for the first time, aimed to inspire students ahead of the exam season.
Discarding the 'Slave Mentality' for Viksit Bharat
During the interaction, PM Modi urged students to abandon what he termed a gulami ki mansikta or slave mentality. He emphasized that adopting a swadeshi lifestyle begins with mental preparation. "If a friend comes to school wearing a foreign jacket, we pay attention to it," he noted, highlighting the need to shift focus to Indian products.
Modi suggested a practical approach: "Make a list of all the things you use in a day. Even the comb and shoes will be foreign. Decide that in a month, when things become old, you will replace them with Indian products." He argued that within a year, foreign items could be phased out, fostering national pride and contributing to Viksit Bharat.
Balancing Education and Skills for Success
Addressing the perennial debate between marks and skills, PM Modi advocated for a balanced approach. "There must be a balance in everything. If you lean towards one thing, you will fall," he said. He distinguished between life skills and professional skills, stressing that both are crucial.
"Education and skill are twin siblings. The two are not separate," Modi explained. He added that education should not be a burden but a tool for building one's life, encouraging full involvement in learning.
Embracing Technology: AI and Gaming as Key Skills
In response to a student's interest in gaming, PM Modi encouraged leveraging technology positively. "Make a social media profile, make your game and launch it... Gaming is a skill. There's speed. It's also good for one's development," he advised. He cautioned against gambling but praised gaming for enhancing expertise and development.
This aligns with his broader message on using technology, including artificial intelligence, to enhance strengths and prepare for future challenges.
Multi-City Expansion and Cultural Elements
This year's Pariksha Pe Charcha marked a departure from previous editions by including interactions in four additional locations: Coimbatore, Raipur, Dev Mogra, and Guwahati, covering all regions of India. These sessions will be aired in a subsequent episode.
During the event, students were gifted the Assamese gamosa, a traditional handwoven cloth symbolizing women's empowerment in the Northeast. Modi highlighted its significance, tying it to the swadeshi theme.
Historical Context and Future Aspirations
Reflecting on Viksit Bharat, PM Modi drew parallels with India's freedom struggle. "Mahatma Gandhi returned from Africa in 1915 and began the freedom struggle... Can we get Viksit Bharat also?" he asked, inspiring students to contribute to national development through their choices and skills.
The event concluded with Modi's call for confidence and positivity in exams, reinforcing the importance of a swadeshi mindset and technological proficiency in achieving success.
