A severe cold wave and persistent fog conditions have forced several Indian states to announce extended school closures, disrupting the academic schedule for students across numerous classes. The decisions, aimed at protecting children's health as temperatures plummet, affect government and private institutions in multiple regions.
State-Wise Breakdown of Holiday Extensions
In Rajasthan, authorities have declared holidays in approximately 20 districts due to the harsh weather. Schools were set to reopen after winter break on Tuesday, but the closure has been prolonged. Specifically in Jaipur, holidays are in place for students up to Class 5 until January 10, 2026. For students in Classes 6 to 8, the break lasts until January 8, 2026. Notably, teaching and non-teaching staff must report to duty, and examinations will proceed as planned.
Tripura has ordered a shutdown of all educational institutions from January 6 to January 10, 2026. This directive from the Tripura School Education Department applies to government, government-aided, and privately managed schools. District Education Officers have been tasked with ensuring the order is communicated across all schools.
Academic Adjustments and Weather Warnings
Jharkhand has also extended the closure of all schools until January 8, 2026. The order covers students from pre-nursery to Class 12 in every category of school. While students stay home, teachers and staff are required to attend. The state's education department has allowed competent authorities to make appropriate decisions regarding any pre-board examinations scheduled during this period.
Simultaneously, the India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for several Jharkhand districts including Lohardaga, Gumla, Latehar, and Palamu. The cold wave and fog have severely impacted daily life, with flight operations from Ranchi also suffering due to low visibility.
Prioritizing Health Over Schedule
The unified reasoning behind these disruptive but necessary orders is the significant risk cold weather poses to children's health. State administrations have emphasized that safeguarding students from the bitter cold and dense fog is their primary concern. These precautionary measures highlight the ongoing challenge extreme weather events pose to India's education calendar, requiring flexibility from institutions and parents alike.
