Haryana Schools to Close for 19 Days Amid Winter Chill
Winter Break Announcement
The cold wave in North India is intensifying, with significant drops in temperature during the morning and evening hours. This situation is particularly affecting young children and school-going students. In response, the Haryana Education Department has announced an extended winter break to provide relief.
Details of the Break
The directive from the Education Directorate states that all schools will remain closed from January 1, 2026, to January 16, 2026. Classes will resume on January 17, following the end of the break. This order applies uniformly across all districts in the state. School administrations have been instructed to communicate the holiday schedule to parents promptly, allowing them to plan travel, tutoring, and study sessions accordingly.
Guidelines for Board Students
Students in grades 10 and 12 may be called to school for practical exams if necessary, following the schedules set by CBSE and ICSE boards. Students are advised to keep an eye on messages, emails, or notices sent by their schools. Experts indicate that this arrangement aims to prevent disruptions in education, although attendance will strictly adhere to board guidelines.
Additional Holidays in December
Before the winter break, schools will also be closed on December 25 for Christmas, December 26 for the martyr Udham Singh Jayanti, December 27 for Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti, and December 28, which is a Sunday. Following these holidays, the winter vacation will commence. During this extended break, many families are preparing to provide their children with warm clothing, nutritious food, and a conducive study environment at home, ensuring that the holidays are both safe and educational.
Similar Measures in Delhi
The Delhi Education Directorate has indicated that winter holidays will begin on January 1, 2026, and may last until January 15. The decisions made by Haryana and Delhi regarding school closures reflect a heightened awareness of safety protocols during the cold season. Parent organizations have praised this timely decision, emphasizing that children's health should be a priority, and this directive is a significant step in that direction.
Rise of Remote Learning
During the school closure period, the use of online classes, homework, and digital learning is expected to increase. Many private schools are already preparing virtual study plans for the holidays. Teachers are also focusing on providing light and revision-based assignments to ensure that students can transition back to regular studies smoothly after the winter break, maintaining a balanced approach to exam preparation.