*Teachers at the Heart of Nation-Building; Their Values Will Help Realise the Dream of Viksit Bharat – Education Minister*

*Teachers Must Lead the Way in Building a Drug-Free, Value-Based Generation and a Stronger Society – Education Minister*

Chandigarh, September 2 – Haryana Education Minister Sh. Mahipal Dhanda said teachers carry the profound responsibility of shaping not only the academic future of students, but also their character, values and sense of social responsibility. As architects of the nation’s future, teachers have a pivotal role in preparing responsible citizens and nurturing a value-based generation capable of taking India towards the goal of Viksit Bharat.

Addressing teachers at a programme organised on the occasion of Teachers’ Day at the Gyan Mansarovar Retreat Centre of Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya at Thirana in Panipat, Sh. Mahipal Dhanda said the responsibility of a teacher extends far beyond imparting knowledge from textbooks. A Guru, he said, is the guiding force who leads an individual from the darkness of ignorance towards knowledge and enlightenment, and therefore shoulders an immense responsibility towards both society and the nation. 

The Education Minister said India is rapidly emerging among the world’s leading nations and every citizen must resolve to contribute towards making India a developed nation in the years ahead. Teachers have the most significant role in translating this resolve into reality as they are shaping the generations of tomorrow.

He said India has not merely presented to the world a vision of economic progress, but has also given the message of global welfare, humanity, values and an ideal way of life. Teachers should inculcate these ideals and values among students from an early age.

Sh. Mahipal Dhanda said teachers working in government schools are highly capable and well-qualified. Their efforts have brought about a positive change in examination results and are transforming the face of government schools. The State Government is providing the necessary facilities in government schools to ensure quality education for students. The dedication of teachers, coupled with the government’s efforts, is further strengthening the education system in Haryana.

Calling upon teachers to play a larger role in shaping society, the Education Minister said there is a need to instil sensitivity towards nature, strong values, morality and a sense of social responsibility among students.

Referring to the thoughts of eminent scientist Jagadish Chandra Bose, he said plants too have life. Nature should not be exploited; instead, its resources should be used in a balanced manner while ensuring their conservation. He also stressed the need to promote plantation on a larger scale.

The Education Minister said teachers can become agents of positive social change by sensitising children towards environmental conservation.

Sh. Mahipal Dhanda said the blessings and guidance of a Guru give an individual the strength to overcome even the most difficult circumstances. With the guiding hand of a Guru, he said, even the greatest challenges become easier to overcome.

On the occasion, the Education Minister also announced a grant of Rs. 11 lakh to the institution from his discretionary fund.

Deputy Commissioner Dr. Harish Kumar Vashishth, Director of the institution Bharat Bhushan, Sarla Behan, District Education Officer Rakesh Boora, District Elementary Education Officer Neelam Kundu, BEO Jaipal, Vijay Kumar and teachers from various schools were present on the occasion.