New Delhi, Feb. 7 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday advised students to maintain a balance in life, focus on all-round development instead of just marks, and use technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) responsibly, as he interacted with students during the ninth edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha. During the event at his residence 7, Lok Kalyan Marg in Delhi, Modi welcomed students with Assam's traditional Gamosa and described it as "an epitome of women empowerment for the Northeast, especially Assam, as the women weave it at home with love and dedication..." Addressing students ahead of board exams 2026, Modi emphasised that education should not be treated as a burden and that exams are only a medium of growth. "Exams should never be the ultimate goal. Education is just a medium of our development. instead of focusing on marks, everyone should focus on where they have made it in life," he said, adding that meaningful learning comes through complete involvement. Responding to students' concerns about conflicting advice from parents and teachers, Modi said every learner has a unique style. "Have faith in and follow your pattern, keeping in mind all the suggestions that come your way," he said, encouraging students for gradual improvement through their experiences. "Even if you become Prime Minister, there will be people suggesting how to do your work," he said, adding that even he changed a few things about the way he works but "did not leave my core pattern." On academic pressure and falling behind in class, Modi said teachers should keep their pace only slightly ahead of students so that learning goals remain "easily attainable". He also suggested that teachers announce upcoming lessons in advance to allow students to prepare, fostering curiosity and confidence. He also called for balance between studies, sleep, food and recreation. "If you lean too much to one side, you are bound to fall. everything in life needs balance," he said, while describing gaming as a skill that can support personality development but cautioning against excessive indulgence and gambling. "Do not indulge in gaming for fun and waste your time just because the internet is cheap in India. We should not allow gambling in the country. I have made a law against betting. When people gamble in games and put money on them, it leads to ruin. That must not be allowed. Gaming is a skill. It also involves speed, so it is good for development, but one should try to find their expertise by choosing better quality gaming..," he said. Responding to a student's query on balancing boards and competitive exams, Modi advised students to prioritise Class 12 board exams and focus on strong fundamentals. He said that if the syllabus is thoroughly understood, "competitive exams will become a by-product without requiring separate effort," likening simultaneous preparation to "playing cricket and football at the same time." During interaction, students also raised questions about skill versus marks and managing exam stress. The next episode will be aired on February 9 at 10am....