Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai honoured the top performers of the 12th board examination at a programme organised at Indira Gandhi Agricultural University on September 28.

He responded to inquiries from students and talked about his own school memories at the event. The CM revealed that he consistently achieved high academic standing and showed proficiency in every topic, with a particular emphasis on mathematics, physics, English, and Sanskrit.

He spoke warmly of his time at Kunkuri, where he finished his matriculation, and mentioned how his teachers would often use his handwriting as an example to other students.

As part of the ceremony, the Chief Minister presented a scooter key to Mahak Agarwal, the state topper from Chhattisgarh.

In his address to the students, Chief Minister Sai emphasised that education is the "mul mantra" (fundamental principle) of development and the key to success in all fields, including business, social service, politics, and agriculture. He spoke about the National Education Policy 2020 and shared the state government's effort in the education sector. He highlighted the policy's focus on employment-orientated education and innovative teaching methods.

He discussed the implementation of the PM SHRI School Yojana in 341 schools across Chhattisgarh, which includes smart classrooms, computers, fully-equipped labs, and modern infrastructure. He also shared the remarkable increase in medical colleges from one to 14 since the state's formation and the establishment of prestigious institutions such as IIT under the leadership of former Chief Minister Dr. Raman Singh.

In response to a student’s question, the CM shared his personal story of losing his father at the age of 10, which led him to take on family responsibilities at an early age. Despite balancing his studies with farming and social duties, he maintained deep respect for his teachers and performed well academically.

Sai also highlighted his passion for social work, particularly in assisting those in need of medical treatment, having facilitated care for thousands of patients through the Chief Minister's and Prime Minister's relief funds. He further mentioned establishing Kunkuri Sadan in Raipur to support patients from Jashpur.

He described himself as a serious, reserved student and shared that he had many meritorious friends in Kunkuri. He also shared that he has many friends in politics. During the event, the Chief Minister gave special recognition to Sunil Korram, a 12th-grade student from a Naxal-affected family in Sukma, who achieved 58% in his board exams through sheer determination and hard work.

The program also honoured Chhattisgarhi folk singer Aru Sahu and folk artist Akashi Vyas for their contributions to local culture.