President pays tributes to teachers
New Delhi, Sep 05, 2026 : President Droupadi Murmu today paid tributes to teachers across the country on the occasion of Teachers’ Day.
Writing an article in an English daily, President Murmu described teaching as a noble responsibility that goes beyond imparting academic knowledge and plays a vital role in shaping individuals and the nation. She expressed gratitude to teachers for instilling knowledge, skills, values and motivation in the lives of crores of students.
Recalling the legacy of former President Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, she noted that despite his achievements as a scholar, author and statesman, he regarded being a teacher as his most important role. She also recalled former President Dr A P J Abdul Kalam’s desire to be remembered as a teacher.
Emphasising the enduring importance of the teacher-student relationship, President Murmu referred to the ancient ideal of ‘Acharyadevo Bhava’ and said teachers must treat students with love, patience and fairness while keeping their well-being foremost.
She shared her own experiences of being guided by affectionate and dedicated teachers, saying their encouragement helped awaken confidence, courage and limitless potential within her.
The President stressed that teachers do far more than teach a curriculum. Through their conduct and example, they mentor and inspire students, helping them develop the ability to think independently, ask questions, exercise judgement and face challenges with confidence.
She added that such education is essential for nurturing future entrepreneurs, scientists, artists and citizens capable of finding innovative solutions to emerging challenges.
Calling teaching ‘the sacred task of shaping humanity’, President Murmu also recalled her own experience as a teacher at the Sri Aurobindo Integral School in Rairangpur, Odisha.
She remembered participating in students’ musical performances, sports and plays, and taking them on outings where they could learn about nature and the environment.
The President said she continues to cherish her bond with many of her former students and has also learnt from their spontaneity and curiosity. She also highlighted her continued engagement with children, including teaching students at a school on the premises around Rashtrapati Bhavan about environmental conservation.
She also recalled establishing a residential school in her village around eleven years ago for children from disadvantaged families and those who had lost their parents. She said seeing the children thrive gives her a deep sense of fulfilment.
President Murmu further emphasised that the responsibility of educating children does not rest with teachers alone. Parents, guardians and society also have an important role to play, while individuals who become role models through their conduct and achievements can serve as valuable sources of inspiration for children.
She said teachers have a sacred responsibility to uphold the trust placed in them by parents and guardians and stressed that their behaviour should nurture confidence rather than create fear, anxiety or a sense of inferiority among children. She underlined that a good teacher helps students become the best versions of themselves and guides them towards becoming good human beings.
Looking ahead, President Murmu called upon teachers to help shape generations that value India’s cultural heritage and traditions, develop a scientific outlook, work for the welfare of humanity, uphold the ideal of Antyodaya, protect the environment and living creatures, pursue excellence and move forward with the spirit of ‘Nation First’.
She also appealed to every citizen to hold committed and sincere teachers in the highest esteem. She expressed confidence that with the contribution of dedicated teachers, India will continue to learn, progress and ultimately lead.