Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Dr Mohan Yadav had a memorable encounter on Wednesday when he met a special cabinet; not of ministers, but of schoolgirls. During the ‘Kitab Se Kal Tak’ programme organised at Kamla Nehru Sandipani Girls Government School in Bhopal, the Chief Minister interacted with students, understood the functioning of their student cabinet and encouraged them to use technology wisely.

CM Dr Yadav invited the members of the school cabinet onto the stage and listened to their experiences. He also held a detailed conversation with teachers, sharing his views on education, discipline, technology and the importance of values in life.

Student cabinet leaves CM impressed

The Chief Minister said he was surprised to learn that the school had its own cabinet system. He called the student representatives on stage and introduced himself to each member.

Class 12 student Shivani told CM Dr Yadav that she was the school’s Sports Minister and worked to convey the concerns and suggestions of students interested in sports to teachers. Another Class 12 student, Sapna Giri, said she handled cultural activities as the Cultural Minister.

Class 11 student Deepika Parte explained that her responsibility was to maintain discipline and guide students on the right path. Discipline Minister Shalini Partele said she worked towards ensuring order in the school.

CM Dr Yadav smiled and remarked that people often get upset with those who enforce discipline. However, when Shalini said that all students were cooperative, the Chief Minister laughed.

A still from CM Dr Yadav's interaction with students

The school’s Head Girl Sneha informed him that she managed cabinet responsibilities as well as school arrangements, while Deputy Head Girl Saleh Khan said she assisted in administrative work. Secretary Bhavna Pathe explained that she helped senior students and completed assigned tasks.

The student cabinet members told the Chief Minister that elections were conducted every year through a proper voting process. Students campaign before elections, prepare an annual calendar and hold monthly meetings with teachers. Members can also be removed if they fail to perform their duties.

CM advises students on responsible AI use

During the interaction, a student asked CM Dr Yadav whether he used ChatGPT and what he searched for on the platform. Responding to the question, the Chief Minister said he used AI tools to understand current developments related to different subjects and include relevant information in his speeches.

However, he cautioned students that artificial intelligence should not replace human thinking.

“Whether it is ChatGPT, Grok or any other AI tool, these are not the final sources of knowledge. Use AI, but apply your own mind and always cross-check facts and figures,” CM Dr Yadav said.

He also encouraged students to help injured people on roads and develop a sense of social responsibility.

‘India’s strength lies in its values’

Addressing the students, CM Dr Yadav said he himself studied in a government school and understood the importance of quality education. He said students today were fortunate to have access to modern facilities and excellent campuses.

Highlighting India’s cultural heritage, the Chief Minister said the country was respected globally because of its traditions and values. He referred to the ideals of “Jeevo Aur Jeene Do” and “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, stressing that people should work for the welfare of society.

He added that a nation survives not only through wealth but through its values, culture and principles.

Sandipani School equipped with modern facilities

Teachers informed the Chief Minister that Kamla Nehru Girls Government School, established in 1958, had now developed into a Sandipani School with support from the state government.

More than 1,800 girls from nursery to Class 12 are currently studying at the institution. The school provides facilities including smart classrooms, computer labs, mathematics laboratories and libraries. It has also been recognised nationally under the Green School category and received a Silver Award in state-level school certification.

The school follows a modern teaching approach under the National Education Policy, with students participating in a democratic cabinet election process through an EVM-based application.

Students encouraged to balance studies, sports and life

Responding to students’ questions, CM Dr Yadav advised them to set goals and continue learning beyond textbooks. He said education should not be limited to earning degrees but should satisfy curiosity and enhance knowledge.

Sharing his own experience, he said he continued his studies even while holding important responsibilities, completing higher education in political science and management.

He advised students to maintain discipline, prepare daily schedules, make time for sports and keep some time for self-reflection.

On managing stress, the Chief Minister said he followed practices such as listening to music, yoga and exercise. He advised students to maintain proper sleep schedules and remain mentally prepared for challenges.

Teachers urged to inspire students

Thereafter, CM Dr Yadav also interacted warmly with teachers and urged them to motivate students to explore fields such as agriculture, entrepreneurship, defence services and politics.

He said teachers should encourage students to become self-reliant, create employment opportunities and contribute towards the development of the state and the country.