Bangalore: Minister of State for Primary and Secondary Education Kimmane Ratnakar has said his department has not directed government schools to make any special arrangements to facilitate students to watch Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address on Friday, Teachers’ Day.

“We are conducting Teachers’ Day as in the past. The Centre has made it clear that it is not mandatory for students to watch the PM’s address,” Ratnakar told Deccan Herald.

His statement comes a day after Sarva Shikshana Abhiyan officials said arrangements have been made in government schools to telecast the address. Ratnakar said, “The main government event—distribution of awards to teachers—will be held in Mysore on Friday.

 In all schools, Teachers’ Day will be held as done in previous years. After the programme, usually students and teachers disperse. Teachers’ Day is meant for teachers and November 14 should be celebrated as Children’s Day.”