Kerala’s General Education Minister V. Sivankutty made a series of game-changing announcements aimed at strengthening the state’s sports ecosystem. Addressing thousands of students and officials, Sivankutty revealed that the education department would collaborate with the finance department to increase travel and dearness allowances for athletes participating in national-level competitions. He confirmed that discussions were underway and assured swift action to implement the revised benefits.

Continuing the government’s commitment to supporting athletes from underprivileged backgrounds, Sivankutty announced the expansion of the housing scheme that previously benefited 50 talented sportspersons. A new public funding initiative, led by the Director of General Education, will soon be launched to provide essential sports equipment to aspiring players across Kerala.

Reaffirming the government’s vision to make sports a way of life for students, Sivankutty said that the department aims to train every student in at least one sport, targeting 25% of this ambitious goal in the first year alone. To further enhance sports culture in schools, the government is exploring ways to involve over 350 sports talents currently employed under the education department in active training and mentorship programs.

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The closing ceremony was attended by Governor Rajendra Arlekar, who handed over the Chief Minister’s Cup to overall champions Thiruvananthapuram, which topped the leaderboard with 1,825 points. Congratulating the winners, the Governor hailed the event as a “gateway to Olympic dreams” for Kerala’s young athletes. “The concept of the Golden Cup is truly inspiring—it motivates us to aim higher,” he said, commending Minister Sivankutty and his team for the flawless execution of the event.

Prominent dignitaries including Ministers Veena George, P.A. Mohamed Riyas, G.R. Anil, MLAs Antony Raju and Kadakampally Surendran, Thiruvananthapuram Mayor Arya Rajendran, Olympian P.R. Sreejesh, and senior officials from the General Education Department also graced the event, marking a proud moment for Kerala’s sporting community.

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