Education Ministry tells CBSE, Central schools to screen film based on PM Modi’s childhood

Coinciding with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday on Wednesday (September 17, 2025), the Union Ministry of Education directed schools under the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), as well as the Centrally-run Kendriya Vidyalayas and Navodaya Vidyalayas, to screen the non-feature film Chalo Jeete Hain, which is loosely based on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s childhood.

“You are requested to issue necessary directions to schools for screening of Chalo Jeete Hain, film for students between 16th September to 2nd October, 2025,” said the Ministry’s letter, which was dated September 11 and released publicly on September 17. “It will help young learners to reflect on themes of character, service and responsibility. The film can also serve as a case study for moral reasoning, and support goals of social-emotional learning, developing empathy, self-reflection, critical thinking and inspiration,” it added.

“Department of School Education and Literacy, MoE is implementing Prerana: An Experiential Learning Program which has successfully completed 65 batches covering 650 districts across the country. It is conducted from the historic Vernacular School of Vadnagar, Gujarat, established in 1888, the very institution where PM Narendra Modi began his educational journey,” the letter said.

‘Deep impression’

The film, which was released seven years ago, was awarded the National Award for Best Non-Feature Film on Family Values at the 66th National Film Awards, the Ministry said. “Within Prerana program, the film has already left a deep impression on participants, who have internalised its message and reflected in their attitudes and actions,” the letter said.

“To promote experiential learning among participants, pedagogical tools such as value-based sessions, story telling, indigenous games, hands-on activities and audio-visual learning are being used in Prerana. One such tool is film screenings which help bring abstract values, life stories, historical contexts, ethical dilemmas and human emotions to life,” it added.