‘Gaming is a skill, gambling is ruin’: PM Modi cautions students on online betting
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday urged students to avoid squandering their time on the internet simply because data is affordable, advising them instead to prioritise the development of essential life and academic skills.
Speaking during the ninth edition of his annual "Pariksha Pe Charcha" interaction, the Prime Minister emphasised that education should be an immersive experience rather than a source of stress. "Education should not be a burden and everyone should be totally involved, as half-hearted education does not make life successful," he told a gathering of students at his residence.
Addressing the "Exam Warriors" gathered from across the country, Modi offered a strategy for mental focus: "Our goal should be such that it is within reach, but not easily attainable. Tame the mind, then connect the mind, and then keep the subjects you need to study. Then you will always find the student successful."
On Gaming and Digital Habits
The Prime Minister issued a specific warning regarding the rise of casual gaming and online betting. While acknowledging that gaming can sharpen alertness and speed, he cautioned against its use as a mere time-killer.
- Avoid Gambling: "Those who indulge in gaming for money will only be ruined. We do not have to encourage gambling in the country. I have made a law against online gambling," he noted.
- Skill Development: He suggested that students interested in the medium should transition from being consumers to creators, using the speed and alertness required in gaming for self-improvement.
Individual Patterns and Personal Growth
Responding to queries about study habits, Modi defended the idea of individual rhythm. "I have become PM. Still, people tell me to work in different ways. But everyone has their own pattern," he said, encouraging students to trust their own schedules, whether they prefer the morning or the night, while remaining open to beneficial advice.
He also reflected on the evolution of the Pariksha Pe Charcha program itself, noting that while he has introduced new formats, such as holding sessions in different states, he has maintained the core principle of the dialogue.
A Record-Breaking Initiative
The 2026 edition of the program marked a massive institutional milestone, with registrations reportedly exceeding 4.5 crore, shattering the Guinness World Record of 3.53 crore set the previous year.
- National Reach: For the first time, the event featured multi-location engagements in Coimbatore, Raipur, Dev Mogra, and Guwahati.
- Holistic Focus: Modi concluded by reminding students to balance rest, hobbies, and studies. "That is why we should not just focus on marks, but on improvement of life. That goes beyond classrooms and exams," he said.
At the start of the session, the Prime Minister welcomed students with traditional Assamese handwoven 'Gamosas.' The interaction was broadcast live at the Bal Yogi Auditorium in Parliament and to millions of students across the country.
With inputs from PTI