Patna: Bihar Education Minister Mithilesh Tiwari on Wednesday said that students must expand their horizons beyond traditional learning and embrace the opportunities offered by the digital age, while using technology responsibly.
Speaking at the Prabhat Khabar Pratibha Samman 2026 ceremony at Shri Krishna Memorial Hall in Patna, Tiwari said Bihar has long been recognised as a centre of knowledge and intellectual excellence.
The event was inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, Education Minister Mithilesh Tiwari, Prabhat Khabar Editor-in-Chief Ankit Shukla and other dignitaries through the traditional lighting of the lamp.
Bihar’s Knowledge Legacy
Addressing students and parents, Tiwari said Bihar is home to historic institutions such as Nalanda and Vikramshila, which once attracted scholars from across the world.
“Prabhat Khabar has done commendable work by recognising and honouring meritorious students. I congratulate both those receiving the awards and those presenting them,” he said.
The minister added that Bihar’s academic tradition should inspire the next generation to pursue excellence in education and innovation.
‘Every Home Should Produce a Rajendra Prasad’
Tiwari said the state government is committed to ensuring quality education reaches even students in the most remote areas.
He said every family should aspire to nurture a student with the vision and achievements of India’s first President, Dr Rajendra Prasad.
“We want higher education to reach students sitting in the last row of society. Bihar has immense talent, and initiatives such as this help recognise and encourage it,” he said.
‘Age of Google, Not the Mughals’
Encouraging students to broaden their understanding of the world, the minister said learning should not remain confined to textbooks.
“Until now your education may have been within a limited framework, but now you must seek knowledge of the wider universe. This is the age of Google, not the Mughals,” Tiwari said.
He also advised students to use mobile phones carefully and responsibly, adding that technology should become a tool for growth rather than distraction.
The minister praised the state leadership, saying educational proposals receive prompt attention and support from the government.
Samrat Choudhary Congratulates Students
Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary began his address with the slogan “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and congratulated the students and their parents for their achievements.
He thanked Prabhat Khabar for consistently identifying and honouring talented students from Bihar and Jharkhand over the years.
“Our children will excel wherever they go. Excellence is part of our identity. Whether as officers, professionals or workers, Biharis contribute in every field across the country and the world,” Choudhary said.
He said recognising young achievers not only rewards hard work but also motivates future generations to pursue academic excellence.
