Prez presents national awards to teachers on Teachers' Day

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that teachers influence the life of students by being their role models.

"They are the beacons of light who guide and motivate students throughout their academic life and, many a times, even beyond. India today needs many more competent and willing teachers to dedicate themselves to improving the standard and quality of education being currently imparted," he said.

"Teachers have a vital role to play in the process of upgrading the quality of education which is a direct consequence and outcome of the quality of teachers," Mukherjee said.

The President said that the difference an outstanding teacher makes to the learning process is central to the spirit of inquiry that needs to be kindled in young minds.

"The big challenge that we in India today face is to improve the quality of teaching and learning outcomes in our schools. This cannot be done without upgrading the skill and knowledge quotient of our teachers and without involving them fully as equal partners in the nation’s progress," he said.

Also present on the occasion was Union Minister of Human Resource Development Smriti Zubin Irani.