Kerala's State Curriculum Steering Committee has approved a draft report proposing lighter school bags and the elimination of 'backbenchers' in classrooms. The reforms aim to enhance children's physical and mental well-being and create a more democratic learning environment. The State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) prepared the report, which is now open for public comment until January 20. The General Education Department plans to implement these changes in the upcoming academic year, seeking broad societal participation.