Power of Education: She stresses that learning can lift even the poorest children to success.
5 september 2025
On Teachers’ Day, President Droupadi Murmu honored 45 educators nationwide with the National Awards to Teachers, emphasizing their critical role in forming the nation and influencing young people. The honorees, who represented a variety of states and locations, included 21 women and 24 males.
Speaking at the event in New Delhi, the President emphasized the transformational power of girls’ education, referring to it as one of the most effective investments for families, society, and the country. According to her, “the most effective way to promote women-led development is to give girls the best education possible.” Drawing attention to the empowering force of learning, Murmu noted that education not only enhances dignity and security but also equips individuals with the tools to rise above poverty. She praised the dedication of teachers who nurture children to realise their potential, observing, “The biggest reward for teachers is that their students remember them throughout their lives and contribute meaningfully to society and the country.” Recalling her own stint as a teacher, she described it as one of the most fulfilling phases of her life.
The President also urged educators to focus on values and character-building alongside academic performance. She stressed that emotional intelligence must complement intellect, as both shape students’ overall growth.
According to Murmu, who emphasized the value of innovation in education, technology should complement human interaction rather than take its place. “Smart blackboards and classrooms are valuable, but the most important element is smart teachers—those who understand the needs of their students and make learning engaging with care and sensitivity,” she remarked. Such teachers, she added, prepare students to meet the needs of society and contribute to national development.
