Kerala is set to make school life easier for students. General Education Minister V. Sivankutty announced that the State Curriculum Steering Committee approved a draft report to reduce the weight of school bags. The report also suggests ending the concept of 'backbenchers' to make classrooms more democratic. The term 'backbenchers' refers to students who usually sit at the back and are thought to avoid studies. Minister Sivankutty said the goal is to make children happy by lightening their school load and encouraging active classroom participation. The State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) studied these proposals and prepared the draft report. To include everyone's voice, the government will invite public comments on the draft report until January 20. The report will be shared on the SCERT website, where teachers, parents, students, and the general public can give their feedback. The Department of General Education plans to put these changes into action in the next academic year, after considering public suggestions. The Minister emphasized, "These changes will help make our schools more child-friendly and democratic."