Yogi Adityanath said that before 2017, serious questions were raised regarding the education system in Uttar Pradesh and there was talk of even cheating on contract. The youth and teachers in other states were also viewed with suspicion regarding the identity of the state. He said that the system in the state has changed in the last nine and a half years and now the people of Uttar Pradesh are looked upon with respect outside. Teachers of the state are also the bearers of this change.
Referring to the changes in law and order, the Chief Minister said that earlier curfew and riots were considered common in the state. Giving the example of Janmashtami celebrations, he said that programs were organized at police lines, police stations, mohallas and other places across the state, but there was no news of riots or disturbance from anywhere. He said that earlier it was difficult to run schools and colleges, today the education system is progressing in a safe environment.
Yogi said that India has been a country that worships knowledge since ancient times. The nature of the tradition of knowledge changed with time, but the importance of education and culture always remained. He said that any nation can become strong and capable only when the new generation gets education and values according to its feelings and values. No one can fulfill this responsibility better than a teacher.
The Chief Minister said that in India, special importance has been given to knowledge and Guru tradition. Festivals like Vasant Panchami and Guru Purnima associated with the worship of Mother Saraswati are symbols of this tradition.
He said that he was told that only 10 teachers would come on the stage, but he knew that the teachers who received the honor had traveled long distances from different districts of the state to reach here. Therefore, it was considered necessary to honor everyone by calling them on the stage. He said that teachers educate children and for this it is also important for them to be educated themselves.
The Chief Minister said that the presence of teachers and their enthusiasm gives new energy to this function. The Chief Minister said that honoring teachers is actually an honor for the tradition that connects generations with knowledge, values and a sense of responsibility towards the nation.