Srinagar, Sept. 5 -- During the Second World War, when men of intellect were also being killed, Hitler was once asked, "What should we do?" He replied, "By all means protect only the teachers; the whole nation will be rebuilt." Such was the importance of teachers, for they are the true nation-builders. Educating people is one of the noblest tasks in the world. The profession of teaching has existed since time immemorial. In ancient India, the gurukul system allowed students to live with sages in forests, away from their homes, where they received education and training for years. These gurus were revered by students and parents alike, sometimes worshipped next only to God. From that time, a teacher has always been placed at the highest pe...