New Delhi, Feb 9 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a significant connection with students from Raipur, Chhattisgarh, during the vibrant and culturally immersive segment of the second episode of the ninth edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026, held on Monday.

This multi-location interaction also included participants from Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu, Devmogra in Gujarat, and Guwahati in Assam, turning into a memorable event as Raipur students greeted the Prime Minister with traditional Chhattisgarhi snacks, fostering an atmosphere of warmth and familiarity while engaging in discussions about exam preparation and essential life skills.

The session opened joyfully as students presented “Thethri”, a crispy deep-fried sweet made from flour, and “Khurmi”, a savory delicacy crafted from gram flour, jaggery, and semolina, typically enjoyed during Diwali.

PM Modi tasted these treats with evident delight, even sharing pieces of Khurmi with those around him.

He remarked that Khurmi resembles the 'chakli' from Maharashtra, yet retains a unique Chhattisgarhi sweetness provided by jaggery.

Student Aditi Upadhyay expressed the joy of the moment by feeding others by hand, describing the experience as truly wonderful and familial.

The dialogue soon shifted to practical advice regarding board exam challenges.

When questioned about vacation plans post-exams, PM Modi encouraged students to begin exploring their surroundings. He proposed creating comprehensive lists of unseen locations within their tehsil, district, and state, and to approach travel with a curious mindset—observing crowds, conversations, and daily experiences in train compartments to truly appreciate India's incredible diversity.

Addressing concerns about exam anxiety and the restlessness stemming from incomplete revision, the Prime Minister reassured students that no knowledge is ever truly lost; it remains nestled somewhere in their minds.

He suggested remaining calm before the exam paper, trusting their preparation, and releasing any worries.

To master subjects, he likened the process to an athlete's journey, emphasizing consistent daily practice, routine, and learning through trial and error.

He shared a simple yet impactful strategy: befriend and teach classmates struggling in subjects like math, as explaining concepts reinforces one's own understanding through concentrated effort.

A Taekwondo enthusiast sought advice on juggling studies and sports. PM Modi underscored the importance of education for personal and social life, highlighting that it should never be underestimated.

He encouraged full talent development while maintaining academic commitments, explaining that true strength lies in excelling in both domains and dispelling the notion that success in one area excuses shortcomings in another.

A student, Somya Verma, inquired about the qualities the Prime Minister expects from children as future leaders. PM Modi responded that leadership begins within; one must firmly determine what needs to be done and commit to action, even if alone.

He illustrated that leadership naturally emerges when one starts with personal responsibility; for instance, picking up litter while walking can inspire others to follow, demonstrating how action breeds leadership.

He clarified that leadership is not limited to elections, parties, or speeches; it encompasses the ability to convey ideas to others without imposing them.

To communicate effectively, one must first possess a deep understanding. Those who grasp concepts can guide; those who do not cannot.

Somya later reflected that PM Modi's insights revealed leadership qualities that stem from taking responsibility. She regarded the encounter as a dream realized, feeling incredibly fortunate to meet the Prime Minister in such an intimate setting—a rare life experience.

PM Modi emphasized that Pariksha Pe Charcha goes beyond mere board exam preparation. It serves as an open forum where students can freely discuss exam experiences, thoughts during tests, stress, expectations, and broader life issues.

He remarked that students' questions resonate with him deeply, reflecting the myriad thoughts continually circulating in the minds of youth across the nation.

The Raipur segment beautifully merged cultural pride with motivational insights, reinforcing the program's goal of alleviating exam stress through positivity, confidence, and practical life lessons. Students expressed immense joy, deeming the interaction unforgettable and profoundly personal.