Kerala, which is going to hold the National Games in November-December 2013, Friday named its mascot, the hornbill, as "Ammu".
The naming ceremony was held here with Chief Minister Oommen Chandy as the chief guest.
Chandy also released the characterized versions of the mascot showing 'Ammu' in the various disciplines of the games.
Chief Commissioner and principal coordinator of the Games Jacob Punnoose said this mascot will now be popularized in educational institutions and across the state.
The event would be held in seven of the 14 districts of the state in 36 disciplines with more than 10,000 athletes taking part.
The games were last held in the state in 1987.