PM Modi Highlights India’s Cultural Diversity While Sharing Chhattisgarh’s Traditional Snacks at Pariksha Pe Charcha

Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered students a glimpse of India’s rich cultural diversity during the ninth edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha by sampling and sharing traditional snacks from Chhattisgarh, while also engaging in wide-ranging discussions on education, leadership, health, travel and technology.

The interaction, held as part of the annual programme aimed at reducing exam-related stress among students, saw the Prime Minister connect with participants in an informal and interactive setting. Alongside discussions on studies and personal growth, the presence of regional food added a cultural dimension to the event, drawing attention to local traditions and culinary heritage.

Traditional Flavours from Chhattisgarh

During the session, students from Chhattisgarh presented the Prime Minister with thethri, a popular savoury snack prepared using gram flour. The snack is traditionally made during festive occasions, especially around Diwali, and is widely consumed across the state. After tasting it, the Prime Minister noted similarities between thethri and similar snacks prepared in other regions, pointing out that in Maharashtra a comparable item is known as chakli.

Following this, he sampled another local delicacy, khurmi, a sweet prepared using jaggery, wheat flour and semolina. A student explained the ingredients and cultural significance of the dish, after which the Prime Minister shared the snacks with other students present at the venue. The moment reflected the programme’s broader aim of fostering cultural exchange and inclusivity alongside academic discussions.

Focus on Learning Beyond Textbooks

Beyond food and culture, the Prime Minister addressed several questions posed by students from different parts of the country. Responding to a query on travel and learning, he encouraged students to first explore destinations close to their homes, including nearby districts and states, before planning longer journeys. According to him, local travel offers valuable learning opportunities and helps students understand India’s diversity at a grassroots level.

He emphasised experiential learning, urging students to observe, interact and reflect during their travels. India’s cultural, linguistic and geographical diversity, he said, is so vast that it offers endless opportunities for learning beyond classrooms and textbooks.

Managing Exam Stress and Building Confidence

Addressing concerns about limited time for revision during examinations, the Prime Minister advised students to trust their preparation and remain confident in their abilities. He highlighted the importance of staying calm, avoiding excessive stress, and believing in the brain’s capacity to retain information when it is most needed.

He also encouraged peer learning, suggesting that students who explain concepts to classmates often develop a stronger understanding themselves. Supporting fellow students, he noted, creates a healthy academic environment and reduces feelings of isolation during stressful periods.

Balance Between Sports and Studies

During the interaction, the Prime Minister underlined the importance of balancing academics with physical activity. He stressed that sports and games are essential for mental and physical well-being and help students manage pressure more effectively. Using a simple phrase, he conveyed that regular play contributes to overall growth and prevents life from becoming monotonous or overly stressful.

The message reinforced the idea that academic success and personal well-being are closely linked, and that students should make time for recreation alongside studies.

Views on Leadership and Responsibility

When asked about leadership qualities, the Prime Minister described leadership as a mindset rather than a position. He encouraged students to be fearless, empathetic and responsible. Leadership, he said, is not limited to politics or formal authority but is reflected in the ability to understand people, take initiative and guide others in everyday situations.

This perspective aimed to broaden students’ understanding of leadership as a life skill that can be practiced in schools, communities and personal relationships.

Thoughts on Artificial Intelligence and the Future

The Prime Minister also shared his views on emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence. He advised students to see technology as a tool for enhancing human potential rather than something to fear or depend on blindly. Emphasising responsible use, he said technology should serve human goals and values.

Referring to the vision of India in 2047, he encouraged students to align their habits, skills and mindset with the goal of building a developed nation. According to him, young people play a central role in shaping the country’s future, and their ability to adapt responsibly to technological change will be crucial.

A Platform Beyond Exams

The ninth edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha once again highlighted the programme’s evolving role as more than just an exam-preparation discussion. By combining conversations on mental health, leadership, culture and technology, the initiative continues to position itself as a platform for holistic student engagement.

The informal moments, such as sharing regional snacks, added warmth to the interaction and reinforced the message that learning is closely connected with culture, curiosity and everyday experiences.