Thrissur (Kerala): Children in Kerala will no longer have to wear uniforms on school celebration days, State General Education Minister V Sivankutty announced at the State School Arts Festival reception committee meeting on Tuesday.

The idea came directly from the children, the minister said. “Let the little ones enjoy themselves like colourful butterflies,” he wrote on Facebook.

While many praised the move, some expressed concerns it might backfire.

One commenter thanked the minister, saying, “Let the children enjoy this special time in their lives.”

Others recalled that uniforms were originally worn three days a week, later increased to five to ensure fairness between children from different economic backgrounds and to avoid making less privileged children feel sad.

They also said uniforms make it easier to identify students outside school and are important for safety during sports and arts events.