Bihar is racing against time to meet registration targets for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026’ programme, as the January 11 deadline approaches. Despite the initiative’s popularity in past years, registration figures remain significantly below expectations, with winter school closures cited as a major factor.

According to Shamayel Ahmed, National President of the Private Schools and Children Welfare Association, schools up to Class 8 have been closed for an extended period due to the cold. District Education Officers across Bihar have now been directed to mobilize schools and ensure maximum participation from students, teachers, and parents. Ahmed has personally reached out to over 25,000 schools to encourage registration.

Data from Patna district highlights the challenge: the target of 301,854 participants has barely reached 60,000 registrants, including students, parents, and teachers. Overall, Bihar has achieved only about 35% of its statewide target of 5,808,058 registrations. District-wise performance is uneven, with Sheikhpura leading at over 69%, while East Champaran lags at just 6.15%.

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District Education Officer Saket Ranjan emphasized the programme’s importance, saying, “Pariksha Pe Charcha is more than an event; it is a platform to reduce exam stress and develop a positive mindset among students. Maximum participation is crucial.” Block Education Officers have been instructed to coordinate with school principals and teachers to raise awareness among students and parents.

Several parents and teachers have reported logistical challenges, including difficulty filling out the registration form online. Shayma Praveen, a mother of a Class 9 student, shared that she struggled with the online form but plans to register along with her daughter, recognizing the programme’s benefits in managing exam-related stress.

Experts note that low participation may also stem from students’ reliance on digital tools like ChatGPT for instant knowledge. Psychotherapist Dr. Binda Singh highlighted the programme’s value in offering practical guidance and real-time interaction, which cannot be replaced by online tools. “It teaches children and parents the true importance of exams and stress management in a holistic way,” she said. Interested participants can register through the myGov app, submit questions, and engage directly with the Prime Minister during the programme, expected between January 20 and early February.

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