President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday conferred the National Awards on teachers from across India at a special ceremony in New Delhi on the occasion of Teachers’ Day, recognising their outstanding contribution to the education sector and their role in shaping the country’s future.
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu highlighted the transformative power of education and said it remains one of the strongest instruments for ensuring equality of opportunity, as envisioned in the Constitution. She also acknowledged the contribution of teachers to India’s progress in school education and praised their efforts in helping the country achieve a negligible primary school dropout rate.
The President’s remarks placed teachers at the centre of India’s educational transformation, stressing that their dedication extends beyond classrooms and textbooks to the intellectual, physical and moral development of children.
President Murmu praises teachers for strengthening school education
President Murmu said that school education provides the foundation for the country’s entire education system. While knowledge and skills can be developed at different stages of life, she emphasised that childhood is the most important period for nurturing values, discipline and good conduct.
According to the President, teachers play a crucial role during the early years of a child’s development. By paying attention not only to academic learning but also to physical and moral growth, teachers can help build generations of capable students and responsible citizens.
She urged educators to approach their profession with dedication and affection, saying that education should develop the whole personality of a child rather than remain limited to academic achievement.
The President’s message comes at a time when India is placing greater emphasis on improving learning outcomes, strengthening foundational education and ensuring wider access to quality schooling.
Education, skills and entrepreneurship vital for India’s growth
President Murmu also underlined the importance of academic excellence, skill development and entrepreneurship in achieving India’s long-term development objectives.
She said India has a national priority of becoming the skill capital of the world while simultaneously progressing towards the status of a knowledge superpower. Achieving these ambitions, she noted, will require a strong education ecosystem supported by committed teachers.
The President’s emphasis on skills and entrepreneurship reflects the growing importance of preparing students for a rapidly changing economy. Beyond conventional academic qualifications, young people need knowledge, practical capabilities, creativity and the confidence to innovate.
Teachers, therefore, have an important responsibility in helping students identify their strengths and encouraging them to become lifelong learners and contributors to society.
World-class education essential for Viksit Bharat
President Murmu said India is moving towards the goal of building a Viksit Bharat, and a world-class education system will be indispensable for achieving that vision.
She described teachers as the people who give life and purpose to the education system. The President stressed that every student should have access to opportunities for quality education and that no child should be left behind because of a lack of educational opportunities.
She called upon teachers to nurture not only knowledge but also inspiration, morality and sensitivity among students. According to her, these qualities, combined with affection and dedication, can help young people grow into responsible citizens capable of contributing meaningfully to the nation’s development.
National Teachers Awards recognise exceptional educators
The presentation of the National Awards on Teachers’ Day serves as an important recognition of educators whose work has made a meaningful difference in classrooms and communities across the country.
The awardees represent the wider teaching fraternity whose everyday efforts contribute to improving India’s education system. Their work highlights the impact that committed teachers can have on students, schools and society.
President Murmu’s interaction with the award-winning teachers also reinforced the broader message that India’s educational progress depends significantly on the people working directly with students.
As India seeks to strengthen its human capital and move towards Viksit Bharat, the role of teachers is expected to remain central. From reducing school dropouts and strengthening early education to promoting skills, values and innovation, educators have a critical role in preparing the next generation.
On Teachers’ Day, the President’s message placed the teaching profession firmly at the heart of India’s national development journey, emphasising that quality education, dedicated teachers and equal opportunity are essential pillars of a stronger and more inclusive India.
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