President Pranab Mukherjee has urged teachers to mould students into self-confident, self-reliant and responsible citizens. He said teachers have to help the youth imbibe essential civilisational values of honesty in life, respect for women and tolerance for pluralism.

Speaking at a function on Teachers' Day in New Delhi today, the President said an inclusive approach is critical for achieving the development goals. Stating that nothing is more saddening than the sight of a girl child being denied education, he called for closing the male-female gap in literacy.

Mr Mukherjee stressed the need to fine tune curriculum and adapt current methodologies to create relevant and effective approaches to teaching and learning. He impressed upon teachers to stay firm on the path of leading India towards its next golden age and regaining the leadership role.

On the occasion, the President presented national awards to 336 teachers from across the country. Human Resources Development Minister M M Pallam Raju and Ministers of State for HRD Shashi Tharoor and Jitin Prasada were also present.

AIR correspondent reports, Teachers' Day is celebrated every year on this day to commemorate the birth anniversary of former President, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. He was a great philosopher and teacher who contributed immensely towards the education system.