Observing that present system of examinations is full of shortcomings, Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said students should be allowed to refer textbooks during exams.

"Everyone accepts that the system of examination at present is full of drawbacks. Considering this, time is now ripe that a serious brainstorming is done on pros and cons of allowing use of textbooks by students while taking exams," Modi said while inaugurating Gujarat University's Youth Festival in Gandhinagar.

To begin with, the suggestion may be implemented during the internal exams of colleges on an experimental basis and the outcome can be analysed.

The chief minister appealed to educational institutes and other social organisations to play a lead role in grooming talented youths and tapping their potential for development of the state.