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‘Johnny Johnny teaches lying’: UP minister sparks row over nursery rhyme

  • UP minister Yogendra Upadhyaya says ‘Johnny Johnny’ rhyme promotes lying and does not reflect Indian cultural values
  • Calls for education system rooted in guru-shishya tradition with focus on moral values beyond textbook learning
  • Announces increase in honorarium for shiksha mitras from Rs 10,000 to Rs 18,000 at Kanpur event

06 May 2026

‘Johnny Johnny teaches lying’: UP minister sparks row over nursery rhyme

Uttar Pradesh Higher Education Minister Yogendra Upadhyaya has sparked controversy by criticising the popular nursery rhyme ‘Johnny Johnny Yes Papa’, claiming it promotes dishonesty among children. Speaking at an event for shiksha mitras in Kanpur, he said such English rhymes do not reflect Indian values and can negatively influence young minds.

The minister emphasised the need for an education system that goes beyond textbooks and instils moral values. Referring to the traditional guru-shishya parampara, he urged teachers to take on a guiding role and impart life lessons alongside academic knowledge.

Highlighting differences between Western and Eastern value systems, Upadhyaya argued that certain English rhymes fail to provide meaningful lessons for children. In contrast, he praised traditional Hindi poems, saying they carry deeper cultural and moral significance.

During the event, the minister also announced an increase in honorarium for shiksha mitras from Rs 10,000 to Rs 18,000, stating that the move would improve their standard of living, especially in rural areas.

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