Punjab Extends Winter Break for Schools Amid Severe Cold

In response to the severe cold gripping many states, the Punjab government has extended winter holidays for all schools until January 7, 2026. This decision prioritizes the health and safety of students amid ongoing chilly conditions. The state's Education Minister announced the extension on social media, emphasizing the need for caution. Additionally, the Punjab School Education Board has released the exam schedule for classes 8, 10, and 12, with written exams set to begin in February. Read on for more details about the holiday extension and upcoming examinations.

By Ambika Singh Jan 1, 2026, 12:43 IST

Punjab's Decision on School Holidays

Several states across the country are experiencing extreme cold weather. In light of these conditions, many schools have adjusted their holiday schedules. The Punjab government has made a significant decision to prioritize the health of children.

Due to the dropping temperatures, the state government has announced an extension of winter holidays for all government, aided, recognized, and private schools in Punjab.

All schools will remain closed until January 7, 2026 (Saturday). This decision was made considering the ongoing cold and fog in the region.

Announcement by Punjab's Education Minister

The announcement was made by the state's Education Minister on the microblogging platform 'X' (formerly Twitter). Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains stated, 'Following the directives of our honorable Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, and considering the persistent cold and fog, as well as the health and safety of children and staff, winter holidays have been declared until January 7 for all government, aided, recognized, and private schools in the state.' He added, 'All schools will reopen on January 8 as usual.'

Previous Holiday Schedule

Initially, the Punjab government had declared winter holidays from December 21 to December 31, 2025. Today's announcement extends the current winter break.

Bains emphasized that the state government aims to ensure the well-being of students, which led to the decision to extend the holidays for all schools in Punjab.

Exam Schedule Released

Meanwhile, the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) has released the date sheet for practical and written examinations for classes 8, 10, and 12 for the February-March 2026 session. The date sheet was issued on December 30.

Written exams for class 8 will take place from February 17 to February 27, 2026, from 11 AM to 2:15 PM. Similarly, class 10 exams are scheduled from March 6 to April 1, 2026, during the same hours, with written exams occurring from February 17 to April 4, 2026.