A severe combination of dense smog and biting cold waves has disrupted the academic calendar across several northern states, leading to widespread school closures and revised schedules. Authorities in multiple regions, including Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR, Jammu & Kashmir, and Goa, have announced holidays or changed operational hours to safeguard students' health.
Uttar Pradesh Implements Revised Timings Amid Cold Wave
In Lucknow, the district administration has taken decisive action due to dense fog and extreme cold. All schools from Class 1 to Class 12, irrespective of their education board, must now start classes only after 9:00 AM. This directive is mandatory for government schools, aided institutions, and all board-affiliated private schools. Officials have mandated strict adherence to this revised schedule until further orders are issued.
The situation is more pronounced in Rampur district, where the cold wave has intensified. The District Basic Education Officer has announced a holiday for all council primary, upper primary, recognized, and aided schools running classes from 1 to 8. The holiday is in effect from December 18 to December 20, 2025. For ongoing operations, a revised timing from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM has been set for relevant institutions until the cold conditions abate.
Extended Winter Break in Jammu & Kashmir
The union territory of Jammu and Kashmir is facing a prolonged shutdown of educational institutions due to harsh winter weather. Schools up to Class 8 have remained closed across most areas for a week-long period from December 13 to December 19, 2025. This extended break is a routine annual measure to protect young children from the region's severe winter chill.
Goa Observes Liberation Day Holiday
Separately, the state of Goa has a scheduled holiday on December 19, 2025, to mark Goa Liberation Day. This public holiday commemorates the state's liberation from Portuguese rule in 1961. Consequently, all schools across Goa remain closed to allow students and staff to participate in the celebrations.
The collective impact of these closures highlights how environmental factors and regional holidays are currently influencing the education schedule in India. Parents and students are advised to stay updated with local district administration announcements for any further changes.
