Uniform makeover on the cards

KOCHI: The tiny tots stepping into standard I of Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) across the country and in the state are sure to miss out on the excitement of wearing new uniforms when school reopens in June-end.The Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan has decided to go for a makeover in school uniform and make it more contemporary. “The sangathan has decided to change the uniform. It will be kept same throughout the country and designed as per the varying characteristics of different regions such as climate and cultural requirements. In a way, the move is part of Kendriya Vidyalaya’s Golden Jubilee celebrations,” said N R Murali, Deputy Commissioner, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, Chennai Region.The standard I students will have to go to school in coloured dress. Principals have been asked to inform parents of standard I students to not get uniforms stitched until further notification. “The sangathan has entrusted the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) and hope to introduce the new model by July. The NIFT has commenced its survey in many schools across the country,” he said. The old uniform will be discarded only after a transition period of two years but the new uniform is a must for standard I students.Parents and students are visualising various kinds of patterns and colours. Parents are also apprehensive whether they have to shell out more money for the new model. “The response from parents and students to the change was mixed. Those who welcome the move are looking forward to the new dress and are hoping that white coloured uniform which gets stained easily will be replaced. However, there are others who are unhappy,” he said.“The old uniform spells comfort and is a part of the KV tradition. I am against the move especially if they are going to add a tie and coat. It also prevents the handing over of my older son’s uniform to the younger one,” said a parent.The navy blue and white skirts, salwar sets, red ribbons, white shirts and navy blue trousers gave an identity to KV, opined students from across the state.