Batting great Sachin Tendulkar has called for a transparent and merit-based system, saying students should never feel that their hard work has gone unrewarded, amid nationwide protests over alleged irregularities in the education system.
Without directly commenting on the ongoing movement demanding the removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Tendulkar stressed the importance of honesty, merit and collective responsibility in shaping the country’s future.
In a post on X, the cricket legend recalled a lesson from his father, who was a professor. “My father was a professor. He was a mentor and guide to many young students. One lesson that he instilled early on was, ‘Failure is okay, cheating is not. Never take shortcuts.”
Tendulkar said society must ensure that effort is valued over shortcuts and that merit remains the guiding principle. “As adults in society, we have the responsibility of shaping culture. A society that prioritises outcomes over effort will seek shortcuts over meritocracy. Today, when students feel disappointed that their hard work hasn’t been rewarded, it is understandable. Collectively, we should all work together towards ensuring they don’t feel this way again,” he wrote.
Calling India’s youth the country’s greatest strength, Tendulkar urged all stakeholders to create an environment where honesty and hard work are recognised.
“Young India is full of dreams and energy. They are the fuel to our success. As a society, all of us, including parents, teachers, friends, relatives, schools, and administrators, have a massive responsibility and different roles to play in ensuring our youth remain encouraged and energised.”
“We must create a culture where hard work is rewarded, honesty is encouraged, and merit wins. I am certain we will all find solutions that strengthen our children’s future and safeguard their aspirations. Jai Hind!”
Tendulkar’s remarks came against the backdrop of protests led by the Cockroach Janata Party, which is demanding the removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged lapses in the education system.
Environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk has extended support to the movement through an indefinite fast. Wangchuk, who was fasting at Jantar Mantar, was initially shifted to Safdarjung Hospital after his vital parameters deteriorated. He was later moved to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram after his wife approached the Delhi High Court seeking his transfer from the government-run facility.
The protests intensified on July 20, when thousands of students attempted to march towards Parliament to voice their frustration. The demonstration was stopped by Delhi Police, who used tear gas and lathi-charge to disperse the crowd.
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