Chandigarh, Dec. 25 -- Amid calls from several MPs, the Akal Takht and Sikh scholars for a change in nomenclature, the Centre has written to state governments and union territories directing them to organise activities in all schools on Friday for Veer Bal Diwas. The day commemorates the martyrdom of the younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh.

The department of school education and literacy (DSEL), under the Union ministry of education, instructed school authorities to hold competitions such as drawing, storytelling, essay writing, poem recitation, debates, and digital presentations in all schools, including Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas. In a letter sent to additional chief secretaries and secretaries last week, the DSEL said: "Veer Bal ...