New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu conferred the National Awards on 45 teachers from across the country at a ceremony in New Delhi on Teachers’ Day. The awardees were recognised for their contribution to innovative pedagogy, dedication to students’ growth, and efforts to improve learning outcomes in challenging circumstances.
Speaking on the occasion, the President said that like food, clothing and shelter, education is essential for dignity and security. She recalled her time as a teacher, calling it a very meaningful period of her life, and emphasised the role of educators in building character alongside imparting knowledge. “Sensitive, responsible and dedicated students who follow moral conduct are better than those students who are only interested in competition, bookish knowledge and selfishness,” she said.
Murmu highlighted the importance of girl child education, stating, “By investing in the girls’ education, we make an invaluable investment in the building of our family, society and nation.” She added that the National Education Policy 2020 places special focus on expanding Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas and facilities for underprivileged girls, but the success of these efforts depends on teachers.
The President also underlined the significance of “smart teachers” over just smart classrooms and technology, describing them as those who understand students’ needs and make learning engaging through affection and sensitivity. She said, “To make India a Global Knowledge Superpower, our teachers must be recognized as the best teachers in the world.”
Among this year’s awardees is M. Devananda Kumar, Faculty of Telugu at Dr Lakireddy Hanimireddy Government Degree College in Andhra Pradesh, recognised for his innovative practices including creating palm-leaf manuscripts and producing educational videos. Another recipient, Proshanto Kr Saha of Rajiv Gandhi Central University, Arunachal Pradesh, was honoured for his contributions to forensic and neuropsychology, which include setting up a Neuropsychology Lab and supporting child abuse victims.
Ahead of the ceremony, Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with the award-winning teachers. In a lighter moment, he remarked that while teachers usually assign homework to students, he wished to give one to them—to lead campaigns promoting swadeshi products and strengthen the “Make in India” and “Vocal for Local” movements.
BI Bureau
