Prime Minister Narendra Modi held an informal interaction with the winners of the National Teachers’ Awards 2026 at his official residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, discussing issues ranging from innovative teaching methods and public speaking to screen addiction, drug abuse and the need to preserve childhood.

The interaction took place on September 4, ahead of Teachers’ Day, and footage of the meeting was shared by the Prime Minister on September 5. Modi said Teachers’ Day was an occasion to recognise the contribution of teachers to society and pay tribute to former President and educationist Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. 

Modi Focuses on Changing Learning Environment

During the conversation, Modi discussed how teachers can identify students’ abilities beyond conventional academic performance and encourage creativity and talent.

The Prime Minister's Office said the interaction was intended as a dialogue with teachers who had been recognised for their contribution to education. Modi told the awardees that each teacher had a story behind reaching the national level and described meeting them as a valuable experience. 

The discussion also touched on ways teachers can make classroom learning more engaging and relevant to students in a rapidly changing environment.

‘Aura’ Becomes Light Moment

The interaction included lighter exchanges alongside discussions on serious challenges facing students.

One such moment centred on the word “aura”, reflecting the informal nature of the conversation between the Prime Minister and the award-winning teachers. The exchange moved between everyday experiences in schools and broader questions about how educators can connect with young people.

The informal setting allowed teachers to share experiences while Modi raised issues that extend beyond classroom teaching.

Concern Over Screen Addiction

Screen use among children and young people emerged as one of the major concerns during the interaction.

The discussion focused on the growing presence of digital devices in children's daily lives and the challenge for teachers and parents in ensuring that technology does not replace physical activity, social interaction and other aspects of childhood.

For educators, the issue is increasingly linked to how schools balance technology-enabled learning with students’ broader emotional, social and physical development.

Drug Abuse Also Discussed

Modi also raised the issue of drug abuse among young people, highlighting the role that teachers can play in identifying problems and creating awareness among students.

The discussion comes against the backdrop of the government's wider emphasis on building awareness against substance abuse. Modi has previously called for greater public participation in efforts to create a drug-free India. 

Teachers, given their regular interaction with students, can be important participants in prevention and awareness efforts, particularly when behavioural changes or vulnerabilities emerge at an early stage.

Keeping Childhood Alive

A central theme of the interaction was the importance of allowing children to experience childhood rather than placing excessive pressure on them.

Modi's message to educators emphasised the need to balance academic learning with creativity, curiosity and real-world experiences.

The discussion suggested that education should not be limited to examination performance. Teachers can also help students develop confidence, communication skills and the ability to discover their own interests.

National Teachers’ Awards 2026

The interaction came on the occasion of the National Teachers’ Awards 2026, which recognise educators for their contribution to school education.

The Ministry of Education has selected 48 school teachers for this year's National Teachers’ Awards. President Droupadi Murmu is scheduled to confer the awards at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on September 5, Teachers’ Day.

The awards recognise teachers whose work has contributed to improving education and making a positive difference to students.

The Prime Minister's interaction with the awardees added a more informal dimension to the Teachers’ Day observances, bringing classroom experiences and wider social concerns into the same conversation.

From the light-hearted “aura” exchange to serious discussions on digital dependence and substance abuse, the interaction underscored the expanding role expected of teachers—not only as educators, but also as mentors who can help young people navigate a rapidly changing social environment.

In an era where smartphones have become an extension of human life, an unexpected trend is quietly gathering momentum. A growing number of Gen Z users—the generation that grew up with smartphones, social media and constant connectivity—are switching to low-tech flip phones. It may appear like a nostalgic fashion statement, but the movement reflects something much deeper: a conscious attempt to reclaim attention, improve mental well-being and escape the endless cycle of digital distraction.

Ironically, the generation most comfortable with technology is now questioning whether it has become too dependent on it.

The Smartphone Paradox

Modern smartphones have transformed how people communicate, work and entertain themselves. Yet the convenience comes with hidden costs. Endless notifications, infinite scrolling, algorithm-driven content and the pressure to remain constantly available have blurred the boundaries between online and offline life.

Many Gen Z users now admit they spend six to ten hours daily looking at screens—not because they need to, but because platforms are designed to keep them engaged. What begins as a quick glance at social media often turns into hours of scrolling through short videos, memes and endless recommendations.

The result is growing concern over reduced attention spans, sleep disruption, digital fatigue and declining face-to-face interactions.

The Rise of Digital Minimalism

The renewed interest in flip phones is closely tied to the philosophy of digital minimalism. Unlike smartphones, flip phones offer only essential functions such as calling, texting and, in some models, basic internet access.

Without Instagram, TikTok, YouTube or endless notifications competing for attention, users often find themselves becoming more present in everyday life. Reading books, exercising, spending time outdoors or simply having uninterrupted conversations become easier when the device in one's pocket no longer demands constant engagement.

For many young users, owning a flip phone is less about rejecting technology and more about using it intentionally.

Mental Health Takes Priority

Growing awareness of mental health has significantly influenced Gen Z's technology choices. Numerous studies have linked excessive social media usage with anxiety, stress, loneliness and lower self-esteem, particularly among adolescents and young adults.

While smartphones are not solely responsible for these issues, many users believe reducing screen exposure helps improve sleep quality, concentration and emotional well-being.

Flip phones have therefore become symbolic—not of technological regression, but of healthier digital boundaries.

A Rebellion Against Constant Connectivity

Interestingly, adopting a flip phone has also become a subtle form of rebellion against the expectation of being permanently available.

Today's workplace, educational institutions and social circles often expect immediate responses to messages and emails. Many Gen Z users say this constant availability creates pressure and prevents genuine relaxation.

By using simpler devices, they regain control over when and how they communicate, rather than allowing notifications to dictate their daily routine.

Nostalgia Meets Sustainability

The resurgence of flip phones is also being driven by nostalgia and environmental awareness. Retro designs appeal to younger consumers who appreciate vintage aesthetics, while simpler phones generally last longer, consume less power and reduce electronic waste.

Instead of replacing expensive smartphones every few years, some users are embracing durable devices that perform only the functions they actually need.

Not a Solution for Everyone

Despite its growing popularity, switching to a flip phone is not practical for everyone. Banking, digital payments, navigation, authentication apps, healthcare services and workplace communication increasingly rely on smartphones.

For professionals, students and entrepreneurs, completely abandoning smartphones may be unrealistic.

The real lesson, therefore, is not that everyone should buy a flip phone. Rather, the trend highlights a broader desire to establish a healthier relationship with technology.

Many users are instead choosing intermediate solutions—disabling notifications, setting screen-time limits, deleting addictive apps or scheduling regular "digital detox" periods.

Technology Should Serve Humans

The popularity of flip phones sends an important message to technology companies as well. Consumers are beginning to value products that promote well-being rather than maximize engagement. Features supporting mindful technology use, healthier screen habits and user control may become increasingly important in future device design.

Ultimately, the flip phone revival is less about returning to the past and more about correcting the excesses of the present.

The Bottom Line

Gen Z's shift toward low-tech phones may seem surprising, but it reflects a growing awareness that more technology does not always mean a better quality of life. In a world dominated by notifications, algorithms and endless scrolling, choosing simplicity has become an act of self-care.

The flip phone is unlikely to replace the smartphone. However, its resurgence reminds us that the most valuable form of connectivity may not be with our devices—but with the people and experiences around us.

As summer heat drives more Indians indoors and onto screens, a new medical prescription is gaining unprecedented acceptance: the mandatory digital detox hour. Leading ophthalmologists and psychiatrists now agree that 60 screen-free minutes daily dramatically improves multiple health parameters.

The Alarming Statistics

India's average daily screen time reached 8.7 hours in 2026, up from 6.2 hours in 2024. Among teenagers, the figure exceeds 11 hours. Ophthalmologist , reported, "We are seeing dry eye syndrome in 14-year-olds, a condition previously limited to people over 50. Digital detox is no longer optional; it's emergency medicine."

The 8 PM Golden Hour

Sleep specialists recommend the hour before bedtime (8 PM to 9 PM for most Indians) as the ideal digital detox window. Blue light suppression during this hour doubles melatonin production, improving sleep quality by 55%. Participants in a Bengaluru-based study fell asleep 22 minutes faster after maintaining this practice for two weeks.

Natural Eye Rehydration

Without screens to fixate on, blink rate normalises from 7 blinks per minute (screen-using) to 22 blinks per minute (normal). Each blink spreads tear film across the cornea. This natural eye rehydration eliminates the need for artificial tear drops in most mild dry eye cases. Additionally, the ciliary muscles of the eye relax, reducing headache frequency.

Cognitive Restoration

Psychiatrists explain that constant screen use keeps the brain's default mode network suppressed. This network handles creativity, memory consolidation, and emotional processing. One detox hour allows this network to activate fully. Patients report improved problem-solving abilities and reduced anxiety after consistent practice.

Family Implementation Strategies

Family therapists suggest making the detox hour collective rather than individual. Activities include board games, storytelling, terrace walks, or simply sitting together with tea. Children comply more readily when parents also participate. The practice strengthens family bonds while delivering health benefits. Many Bengaluru apartments now schedule common detox hours across multiple families.

Physical Activity Integration

The detox hour naturally encourages movement. Without screen distraction, people stretch, walk to the kitchen for water, or perform simple household tasks. This low-intensity activity accumulates to approximately 4,000 additional steps weekly. Combined with reduced sedentary time, the cardiovascular benefits become measurable within one month.

Workplace Adoption

Forward-thinking companies like Infosys and Wipro have implemented mandatory digital detox policies. No internal emails or messages are sent between 8 PM and 9 PM. Meeting scheduling during this hour is prohibited. Early data shows a 30% reduction in employee-reported burnout and a 15% increase in next-day productivity.

Practical Getting-Started Guide

Experts recommend starting with 20 minutes rather than a full hour. Use a physical timer. Remove all devices from the room during this period. Have alternative activities prepared in advance. Gradually increase duration weekly. Most importantly, do not check devices immediately after the detox hour ends; this negates much of the benefit.

Physical Evidence

Wearable device data from 10,000 detox practitioners shows improved heart rate variability (a stress resilience marker) within three weeks. Blood pressure readings drop by an average of 4-5 mmHg. Sleep quality scores improve by 40%. These objective measurements confirm what practitioners report subjectively: digital detox works.