An inspiring initiative that turns student success into social transformation
Kerala has once again shown the rest of India what it means to blend social justice with educational vision. The state’s Education Minister, V Sivankutty, has announced a remarkable initiative: gold-medal winners at the annual state school sports festival will receive newly built homes, provided they come from economically weaker backgrounds. The announcement, made in October 2025 at Kozhikode, follows an emotional discovery of the hardships faced by several of Kerala’s young champions.
This decision brings together two of Kerala’s defining strengths — education and empathy. It recognises that behind every medal there is often a story of struggle, sacrifice and silent endurance.
Devananda V Biju: The Spark That Started a Movement
The initiative gained momentum when the minister met Devananda V Biju, a student-athlete from Kozhikode who became the sensation of this year’s school sports meet. Devananda blazed through the 200-metre race in a record-breaking 24.96 seconds, after already winning gold in the 100 metres earlier in the tournament. Her performance captured the imagination of coaches and spectators alike, symbolising the athletic spirit Kerala nurtures in its youth.
Yet, away from the track, Devananda’s life painted a far different picture. Her family lived in a small tiled house that had seen better days — a home that leaked during the monsoon and lacked the safety every child deserves. When Minister Sivankutty learnt about this, he personally enquired about the family’s situation. Upon discovering that they owned about nine-and-a-half cents of land but had no means to build a proper home, he acted without delay.
In his own words, the minister explained, “Many of our champions come from humble families. Their achievements are a matter of pride for Kerala. This is our way of giving them the dignity they deserve.”
More Than a Gift — A Message
The symbolic value of this gesture extends far beyond bricks and mortar. It is a statement that education and sport are not privileges, but rights that deserve both recognition and reward. The Kerala model of governance has often emphasised human development — healthcare, literacy, and social equality — and this programme adds a new dimension to that legacy.
For students, it creates a direct link between excellence and empowerment. A medal now represents not just a moment of fame, but a tangible improvement in one’s quality of life. For parents, it removes the heart-breaking choice between allowing children to pursue sport or forcing them into early work due to poverty. And for society, it reinforces the idea that success stories should not be limited to the privileged few.
Why This Matters
1. Encouragement for Future Athletes:
Kerala’s youth now see a path where dedication to sport can lead to security and dignity. It turns sport into a tool of social upliftment.
2. Focus on Equality:
The programme acknowledges the social inequalities that persist even among high-achievers. By addressing housing insecurity, it ensures that no child’s success is overshadowed by hardship.
3. A Model for India:
Other states could adopt similar schemes, linking student achievements to welfare initiatives. The ripple effect could transform the way India supports its young talent.
4. Community Involvement:
Sponsors and public bodies are being encouraged to partner in the project, creating a culture of shared responsibility.
Reactions from Across Kerala
1. Encouragement for Future Athletes:
Kerala’s youth now see a path where dedication to sport can lead to security and dignity. It turns sport into a tool of social upliftment.
2. Focus on Equality:
The programme acknowledges the social inequalities that persist even among high-achievers. By addressing housing insecurity, it ensures that no child’s success is overshadowed by hardship.
3. A Model for India:
Other states could adopt similar schemes, linking student achievements to welfare initiatives. The ripple effect could transform the way India supports its young talent.
Sponsors and public bodies are being encouraged to partner in the project, creating a culture of shared responsibility.
Educators, athletes and social activists have all welcomed the move. Veteran sports coaches note that Kerala’s school meets have long been the breeding ground for national-level talent. With improved living conditions, many of these athletes can train without distraction or fear.
Parents of other gold-medal winners have also expressed gratitude and optimism, hoping that their children too might receive such recognition. On social media, the announcement has gone viral, with thousands praising the minister’s compassion and vision.
Beyond Devananda: Building Dreams
Construction of Devananda’s house is expected to begin soon, overseen by the Scouts and Guides. Several local contractors have volunteered materials and labour free of cost. The plan is to complete the first batch of homes before the next school sports season begins.
While 50 homes may seem a modest number compared to Kerala’s student population, the symbolic power of the gesture is immense. It tells every child — whether in athletics, academics, or arts — that the state stands beside them. It tells every parent that their sacrifices are seen and valued.
A Future Rooted in Hope
Kerala has often been a trailblazer in human-centred policy, and this initiative reinforces that legacy. When a government chooses to celebrate its young citizens not just with trophies but with homes, it changes the narrative of success itself.
For Devananda V Biju and many others like her, the finish line on the track has now become the starting line of a better life.
