
Mon Jan 12 17:51:23 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Political Row Erupts Over Kerala’s “Vijnana Yatra” Quiz
The Story: A political controversy has ignited in Kerala over the “Vijnana Yatra – Chief Minister’s Mega Quiz,” a state-wide knowledge initiative. Opposition teachers’ organizations are demanding the quiz be withdrawn, citing concerns about its timing, content, and alleged political agenda. These groups claim the quiz will burden students preparing for upcoming SSLC and higher secondary examinations in March. They also allege the quiz promotes government achievements rather than fostering genuine knowledge.
Key Points:
- The Kerala Pradesh School Teachers’ Association (KPSTA) opposes the quiz, citing the proximity to crucial examinations.
- The KPSTA alleges a political agenda behind the quiz, accusing it of promoting government schemes.
- An Aided Higher Secondary Teachers’ Association representative claims the quiz is primarily an advertisement for the government’s “development achievements.”
- The pro-Left Kerala School Teachers’ Association (KSTA) defends the quiz, asserting that it includes questions related to initiatives from previous United Democratic Front (UDF) administrations.
- The KSTA accuses the opposition of raising “baseless” allegations after failing to find factual errors in the quiz.
Key Takeaways:
- Education in Kerala is becoming increasingly politicized, with the “Vijnana Yatra” quiz serving as a battleground between opposing political factions.
- The timing of the quiz, close to important examinations, raises legitimate concerns about potential stress and disruption for students.
- Allegations of biased content highlight the need for independent oversight and balanced representation in educational initiatives.
- The opposing reactions from teachers’ associations affiliated with different political leanings reveal a deep partisan divide within the education sector.