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Emphasising that moral values are essential for building a progressive and responsible society, Andhra Pradesh Education Minister Nara Lokesh said the state government aims not only for economic development but also for nurturing a value-driven citizenry. Speaking at the state-level conference on moral education at Tummalapalli Kalakshetram in Vijayawada, he highlighted ongoing efforts to integrate ethics, discipline and social responsibility into the education structure.

Lokesh recalled that Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu entrusted him with the task of driving a value-based transformation in the education sector. As part of this mission, the government appointed renowned scholar Brahmasri Chaganti Koteswara Rao with Cabinet rank to guide moral-value initiatives. Calling his appointment a “sacred responsibility,” Lokesh said Chaganti’s personal integrity and disciplined lifestyle serve as a model for students.

He pointed out that unlike many who seek Cabinet rank for privileges, Chaganti Koteswara Rao declined all government benefits. “He didn’t even take a cup of coffee at government cost and refused to use an official vehicle. He pays his own phone bill. Guided by such a noble person, we are preparing moral-value textbooks for your future,” he said.

Lokesh explained that children, like clay shaped into pots or stone carved into sculptures, can be moulded into responsible citizens through value-based education. Citing the misuse of nuclear power in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, he said knowledge without ethics becomes destructive, while the same power brings prosperity when used responsibly for electricity generation. “Teachers have the responsibility to guide students onto the right path,” he stressed.

Sharing insights from his upbringing, Lokesh said his mother Bhuvaneswari taught him to treat everyone with dignity, regardless of caste, religion or gender. He condemned derogatory expressions used against women and urged students to oppose such behaviour. “Put a full stop to that language. If anyone insults women, tell them Lokesh anna will not tolerate it,” he said. He also appealed to filmmakers and OTT platforms to avoid content that degrades women, adding that he had discussed the matter with the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister.

After assuming charge of the Education Department, he reviewed school textbooks and noticed that household work was always shown being done only by women. “I immediately ordered 50-50 representation. Men must also be shown sharing domestic chores,” he said. Recalling his student life in the United States, he mentioned that he and his wife Brahmani shared household tasks equally, an example he believes society should adopt.

He reiterated that the curriculum from KG to PG is being revamped to remove political symbols and ensure a balanced learning environment. School kits now feature eminent personalities like Dr. S. Radhakrishnan and Durgabai Deshmukh. Advising students to value their parents’ sacrifices, Lokesh said, “Your parents spend every rupee for your future. You must uphold their faith.” He appreciated Puttaparthi students who left their event venue spotless even after a programme with top dignitaries.

Lokesh said the education system looks to Chaganti for direction in shaping moral education. The government plans to conduct similar value-based programmes across districts and constituencies involving teachers, students, parents and the wider public. “As we work to make Andhra Pradesh No. 1 in investments, we must also lead in moral values,” he said, urging Chaganti to continue guiding the mission.

Addressing the gathering, Andhra Pradesh Moral Values Advisor Brahmasri Chaganti Koteswara Rao said the true purpose of education is the upliftment of society. He stressed that moral grounding begins at home, where parents are a child’s first teachers. Calling family the greatest gift from God, he said lessons of discipline, compassion and duty originate from parents. “Learn to respect your mother. Never do anything you cannot openly share with her,” he said.

Chaganti urged students to value parental guidance, saying obedience naturally builds moral habits. Love among siblings and respect for elders, he said, are essential for a strong value-based upbringing. Highlighting the role of teachers, he said a guru’s greatest joy comes from watching students progress. Classrooms, he said, must impart both knowledge and character, and education must always uplift society.