Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government announced that all newly established government educational institutions will no longer carry religion-based names, signalling a move to reinforce secular principles in public education.

The decision, taken at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, applies to schools, colleges, universities, and other state-run institutions established in the future. Existing institutions will retain their current names, officials clarified.

Secularism at the forefront

According to sources, the measure is intended to ensure that government-run educational institutions remain secular and reflect constitutional values of equality and inclusiveness. The announcement comes as part of a broader set of policy measures approved by the Cabinet.

“The aim is to make all future institutions neutral and representative of the state’s commitment to inclusiveness,” sources said.

Justice J B Koshy Commission report cleared

The Cabinet also approved the Justice J B Koshy Commission report in principle and decided to officially publish it. The commission was tasked with examining the educational and economic backwardness and welfare of Christian minorities in Kerala.

Officials emphasised that the publication of the report will aid in formulating measures to address inequalities and support minority communities, though no immediate policy changes beyond publication were announced.