Kerala will ban religion-based names for new government educational institutions. The state cabinet made the decision on Tuesday. Future government schools, colleges, and universities will not receive names tied to any religion. This policy aims to ensure these institutions remain secular. It reflects constitutional values of equality and inclusiveness.
New Institutions Affected
The new rule applies only to institutions established from this point forward. Existing government schools with religious names are not impacted. This decision is part of broader policy measures approved by the cabinet. The cabinet meeting was chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. An official release from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) confirmed the decision.
Secularism in Education
The move is intended to promote secularism in government-run education. Officials stated the aim is to uphold the constitutional principles of equality. Inclusiveness is also a key driver for this policy change. This ensures all students feel welcome.
Related Cabinet Decisions
The cabinet also gave in-principle approval to the Justice J B Koshy Commission report. The report will be officially published. The commission studied educational and economic backwardness. It focused on the welfare of Christian minorities in Kerala. This decision is separate from the naming policy.