On the occasion of Teachers’ Day, President Droupadi Murmu felicitated outstanding educators at the National Awards for Teachers 2025 ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan. A total of 66 teachers were honoured this year  45 from schools and, for the first time, 21 from higher education institutions and polytechnics.

The school awardees came from a wide range of institutions including state schools, central boards, Kendriya Vidyalayas, Navodaya Vidyalayas, Sainik Schools, and the Atomic Energy Education Society. In higher education, awardees included faculty from IITs, IIM Bangalore, IISER, IIST, BITS, central and state universities, affiliated colleges, and a government polytechnic.

Speaking at the ceremony, the President described education as a basic necessity for life, just like food, clothing, and shelter. She reflected on her own time as a teacher, calling it one of the most satisfying periods of her life, and praised educators for shaping young minds and enabling them to overcome obstacles.

She stressed that values and responsibility matter more than rote learning or excessive competition, and said it is “inspiring teachers” not just technology or smart boards who leave a lasting mark on students.

Murmu placed special focus on girls’ education, calling it the most powerful driver of social progress and national development. She encouraged teachers to give extra support to students from disadvantaged families and expressed faith that Indian educators, guided by the National Education Policy 2020, will help position India as a world leader in knowledge and innovation.