Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the National Awardee Teachers in New Delhi, underlining the central role of educators in shaping the nation’s future and describing them as a powerful force in nation-building. He emphasised that the honour accorded to teachers each year is not a formality but recognition of their lifelong dedication and the impact they make on society.
Congratulating the recipients of this year’s National Teachers’ Awards, the Prime Minister said the recognition reflects not only their hard work but also the broader commitment of millions of teachers across the country who devote themselves to education with sincerity and service. He noted that teachers in India have traditionally enjoyed deep respect in society, with the Guru-Shishya bond seen not only as an exchange of knowledge but also as guidance for life.
Modi stressed that teachers shape both the present and the future of the nation, placing their contribution among the highest forms of national service. He urged educators to align their methods with the evolving needs of the time, pointing out that sensitivity to curricular reforms is essential to ensure students are prepared for emerging challenges.
He linked this spirit of reform to the government’s broader agenda, highlighting the introduction of what he called “GST 2.0”. The Prime Minister said the new simplified structure with two slabs, 5 per cent and 18 per cent, will come into effect from September 22, coinciding with the start of Navratri. He noted that the move is designed to ease household budgets and strengthen economic momentum, calling it a double celebration ahead of Diwali and Chhath Puja.
Explaining the impact of the reform, Modi said the reduction in tax rates will benefit farmers, women, youth, and middle-class families. He contrasted the current structure with pre-2014 tax burdens, when essential goods and services were subject to steep levies. The Prime Minister cited examples such as toothpaste, soap, and bicycles, which once carried rates of up to 28 per cent, as against the 5 per cent slab now applicable. Similarly, he said taxes on medical kits have fallen from 16 per cent to 5 per cent, while rates on cement and appliances like televisions and air-conditioners have been lowered from over 29 per cent to 18 per cent.
The Prime Minister also highlighted reduced taxes on farming equipment, textiles, handicrafts, and small-scale enterprises, stressing that the reforms lower costs for families while encouraging economic activity. He framed the changes as part of a broader commitment to “Viksit Bharat”, emphasising that simplicity, improved quality of life, higher consumption, ease of business, and cooperative federalism are the five major benefits of the reform.
Turning back to the role of educators, Modi urged teachers to instil values of self-reliance in students, noting that a country dependent on others cannot progress at its true potential. He cited the example of high edible oil imports, underscoring the need for a Swadeshi spirit in everyday choices. Teachers, he said, should engage students in identifying imported goods in their lives and replacing them with indigenous alternatives, connecting personal action to national progress.
He encouraged schools to adopt practices like ‘Swadeshi Week’ and ‘Local Product Day’ to cultivate pride in Indian-made goods. He also praised the success of the Chandrayaan mission for inspiring young students towards science and innovation, noting that initiatives like the Atal Innovation Mission and Atal Tinkering Labs provide platforms for nurturing ideas.
Modi further touched upon the need to prepare students for a digital future, balancing opportunities with awareness of risks like online gaming addiction. He said teachers play an essential role in guiding youth to embrace technology responsibly while exploring career opportunities in emerging sectors.
The Prime Minister concluded by congratulating the award-winning teachers for their service and dedication, expressing confidence that they will continue to advance the mission of nation-building.
