Traffic restrictions will be in place in Kizhakkekotta, Thiruvananthapuram district, from January 4 to 8 during the State School Kalotsavam. KSRTC and private buses will not be permitted on the stretch between Kizhakkekotta and Pazhavangadi Ganapathy Temple. Instead, bus services from these areas will operate from parking centers at Attakkulangara, Vettimuricha Kotta, and Kottakkakam. For more information on the traffic arrangements, contact 0471-2558731 or 9497930055.

Applications are invited under the Central Pre-Matric Scholarship – Component-1 scheme for Scheduled Caste students in classes 9 and 10. The last date for submission of applications is February 15. According to Central Government guidelines, only Scheduled Caste students with an annual family income of up to Rs. 2.50 lakhs are eligible to apply. An Aadhaar-seeded bank account is mandatory for applying. Persons with disabilities and hostel residents should provide a relevant certificate. Students enrolled in government/aided/recognized unaided schools with UDISE codes registered in the e-Grants portal and receiving scholarships through e-Grants are eligible to apply. Applications should be submitted through the educational institution on the e-Grants site. Contact the respective Block/Municipality/Corporation Scheduled Caste Development Office for more information. Phone: 0484-2422256.

The Kerala Khadi Village Industries Board invites applications for a 6-month beekeeping training course. Candidates aged 18 to 30 with a minimum qualification of SSLC can apply through the website khadi.kerala.gov.in. The deadline for submitting applications is December 28. For more information, contact: 8089530650.

The Forest and Wildlife Department invites applications for the Vanamitra Award for the year 2024-25. The award recognizes efforts in conserving local biodiversity through preserving forests, medicinal plants, agricultural biodiversity, and related initiatives. Individuals, voluntary organizations, educational institutions, and farmers are eligible to apply. Applications should be submitted to the Assistant Forest Conservator, Social Forestry Division, Idukki, Sahyasanu Forest Complex, Vellapara, Painav. P.O. 685603, before December 31. The application must include a detailed note proving eligibility for the award, along with relevant documents and photographs as evidence. For more information, contact the office of the Assistant Forest Conservator, Idukki District Social Forestry Division. Phone: 04862 232505.