Every year in India, exam season arrives with an unspoken weight. For students, it’s not just about answering question papers; it’s about expectations, pressure, and often, anxiety that builds quietly over time.

This reality led Amar Ujala to think beyond headlines and step into something more meaningful with Tanav Mukt Pariksha or Stress-Free Examination.

Where it all began

The initiative took shape in late 2025, starting in Varanasi, a city that beautifully blends tradition, spirituality, and a deep-rooted culture of learning. In many ways, it felt like the right place to begin a conversation around mental well-being and education.

What started as a focused effort in one city soon found resonance, leading to its expansion into other cities in 2026.

Reaching students where it matters

One key intention behind the campaign was inclusivity. Stress doesn’t differentiate between students and neither should support.

The sessions were conducted across 10 zones, covering both private CBSE schools and government schools. In total, 55 sessions were held, each designed to connect, not just instruct.

But what truly made these sessions different was the people behind them.

Psychologists and education experts brought in professional insight, while IAS and IPS officers added something equally powerful: their personal journeys. In India, these officers are seen as symbols of perseverance and success, and hearing them speak made a real impact. It helped students see challenges not as roadblocks but as part of the journey.

Moving beyond motivation

Rather than offering generic advice, the sessions focused on simple, practical ways students could manage exam stress, such as how to structure their time, improve concentration, and stay emotionally balanced during high-pressure periods.

There was also a subtle yet important push to build better daily habits. Students were encouraged to read newspapers regularly — not just for academic benefit but to become more aware, thoughtful, and confident in their understanding of the world.

Lasting impact 

The campaign reached more than 23,000 students directly, but the real success wasn’t just in the numbers — it was in the change people noticed.

Teachers noted students appeared more composed. Parents observed a shift in mindset from fear to readiness. And for many students, exams began to feel a little less overwhelming.

More than a campaign

For Amar Ujala, Tanav Mukt Pariksha wasn’t just an initiative; it was a step toward redefining the role of a media organisation in today’s world.

It showed that journalism doesn’t always have to be confined to reporting. Sometimes, it can step in, engage, and make a tangible difference.

And perhaps that’s the most lasting takeaway when conversations around mental well-being are brought into everyday spaces: They don’t just help students perform better in exams. They help them feel better, think more clearly, and move forward with confidence.

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