Thiruvananthapuram: Children in state-run schools in Kerala will soon be awarded grace marks for cultivating reading habits, starting from the next academic year, State General Education Minister V Sivankutty said on Wednesday.

In a Facebook post, the minister said a dedicated period will be set aside for reading books, newspapers, and related activities. “Grace marks will be awarded from the next academic year to children who engage in activities that promote reading habits,” he added.

For students in grades one to four, weekly sessions will focus on age-appropriate reading activities. Those in grades five to twelve will have similar sessions linked to newspaper reading and follow-up exercises.

Teachers will be trained for the initiative, and a handbook will be prepared to guide reading-related activities. The Education Department is also considering adding a reading-focused segment to “Kalolsavam,” the annual school arts festival, the minister said.