Thiruvananthapuram: The general education department has issued a clarification regarding the mistakes in the order about granting grace marks for SSLC and plus two students who take part in the state level sporting events.

As per the order that was published a few days ago, those who win up to first four places in the sporting events organised by the various sports associations approved by the general education department and the state sports councils, would only get seven marks. However, the sports department clarified that seven marks would be given to those who grab the fourth place. Meanwhile, the winners of the first three places would get 20, 17 and 14 marks respectively.

Earlier, grace marks were granted to those who win up to 8^th place in individual events and up to 6^th place in team events. However, this has been cancelled in the latest revision of guidelines. Besides, grace marks were given for participation in national-level sports events.

The grace marks given to winners in national and international events have been significantly reduced. Earlier, grace marks were given as per the positions won by the contestants. However, now, the students would get just thirty marks for both participation and winning.

Meanwhile, sports experts and teachers say that the latest revisions would only keep youngsters away from the sports field.

M Sunil Kumar, the state president of the Departmental Physical Education Teachers Association and Jostmon John, state president of the Kerala Private School Physical Education Teachers Association demanded to withdraw the revisions that are not reasonable or realistic.