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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday called on students to approach technology with responsibility and purpose, urging them to see Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a support system for learning rather than a substitute for hard work.

Interacting with students during the ninth edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha at his New Delhi residence, the prime minister spoke at length about exam stress, personal growth and the changing role of technology in education.

Referring to the unprecedented access today’s youth have to digital tools, PM Modi said students must develop clarity and judgement while using AI. “You are fortunate to have so many technological opportunities that weren’t available in my time. We must develop the intelligence to use them correctly. AI should enhance your capabilities,” he said.

Explaining how AI can be used constructively, the prime minister said it can help students organise information, explore reading material and deepen understanding—provided it is used thoughtfully. He warned that relying on AI only for quick summaries limits learning, while meaningful engagement strengthens knowledge and creativity.

Student Ananya Sharma from Chandigarh echoed the view, describing AI as an enabler rather than a destination. “It can help us move forward, but it cannot directly take us to our goal. I use it to create technology-related apps so it becomes useful for everyone,” she said.

PM Modi urged students to dream without fear but reminded them that ambition must be matched with consistent effort. “Not dreaming is a crime. But merely humming about dreams never works. Action is paramount in life,” he said, encouraging students to convert aspirations into achievable goals.

As board examinations for CBSE, ICSE and various state boards draw closer, the Prime Minister interacted with selected “exam warriors” from across the country, including students from Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh and Assam.

Stressing the importance of balance, PM Modi advised students to manage academics alongside rest, hobbies and skill development. “If you lean too much to one side, you will surely fall,” he said, adding that life skills and professional skills must grow together.

He noted that skills are rooted in learning and observation, underlining the role of curiosity and discipline in personal development. “The beginning of skill is knowledge; its importance cannot be underestimated,” he said.

The PM Modi further cautioned against viewing education as a burden or treating exams as the final goal. “Education should involve total participation. Exams should never be the ultimate goal,” he said, urging students to focus on long-term self-improvement rather than short-term scores.

He also highlighted the role of teachers in shaping well-rounded individuals, saying true education goes beyond what is required to perform well in examinations. Touching upon online habits, PM Modi warned students against mindless internet use and stressed the need for digital discipline. Referring to betting, he said strict action would be taken against such practices.

At the same time, he acknowledged that gaming can be beneficial if pursued wisely. “Gaming is a skill. It involves speed and helps personality development,” he said, advising students to choose quality and purposeful engagement.