Politics · India Bureau
PM Modi urges teachers to combat drug abuse, reduce student screen time
On Teacher's Day 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon educators to play an active role in raising awareness about substance abuse among students while encouraging creative pursuits to limit excessive digital consumption.
LSN India ·
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has tasked teachers with addressing two critical challenges facing Indian youth: drug awareness and excessive screen time. Speaking on the occasion of Teacher's Day 2026, Modi highlighted the pivotal role educators play in shaping adolescent behaviour and fostering healthy developmental habits.
The Prime Minister stressed that schools must serve as frontline institutions in educating students about the dangers of substance abuse. By integrating drug awareness programmes into the curriculum and fostering open dialogue, teachers can help students make informed decisions and resist peer pressure, Modi indicated.
Beyond prevention, Modi emphasised the importance of reconnecting children with creative and artistic pursuits. He urged schools to organise structured activities, cultural events, and skill-based programmes that would engage students meaningfully and reduce their dependence on digital devices.
The emphasis on creativity forms part of a broader push to develop well-rounded individuals equipped with both academic knowledge and practical life skills. By channelling youthful energy into productive activities, schools can address the growing concern over screen addiction while simultaneously nurturing talent and innovation among the younger generation, according to Modi's message to the teaching fraternity.