Chennai: Emphasizing the importance of education, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Friday urged students never to abandon their pursuit of learning, regardless of challenges they may face.

Addressing a felicitation ceremony in Chennai for Tamil Nadu students who cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination, Stalin presented certificates and congratulated the achievers.

"Education is our weapon; no matter what risk we face, we must never give up on education," the Chief Minister said.

He noted that Tamil Nadu has long been recognized as a land of knowledge and that officers from the state hold a special value across the country.

Highlighting the government's initiatives, Stalin said the 'Nan Mudhalvan' scheme was launched to enhance students' skills and help them succeed in various competitive exams. "Power should be used to serve fellow human beings and society," he added.

Urging the young officers to uphold values of equality, social justice, honesty, and truthfulness, Stalin said, "Wherever you work across India, remember to strive for the upliftment of the poor and the needy. You must not only have role models but also become one yourselves."