Thiruvananthapuram; The upcoming State School Youth Festival in Thiruvananthapuram, scheduled from January 4 to 8, will see its venues named after different rivers in Kerala, marking a shift from the earlier practice of naming them after eminent personalities in the social and cultural spheres.

According to Education Minister V Sivankutty, the Department of General Education has decided to implement this change to avoid potential controversies and foster ecological awareness among students.

This year, 24 venues, including one dedicated to the band-playing competition, are being set up for the event. While the Central Stadium behind the Secretariat will serve as the main venue, other locations such as Poojappura Hall and various school premises across the city will host other events.

To address potential traffic congestion, additional parking spaces will be arranged near the main venue, the minister added.