As the New Year begins, students across India are experiencing extended breaks due to severe cold waves and other seasonal factors. Many state governments have announced school and college closures to ensure the safety and well-being of students amid harsh weather conditions. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the closures, their reasons, and the reopening schedules across various states.
The primary reason for the closures is the extreme cold wave gripping northern parts of India. States like Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan have witnessed dense fog, low temperatures, and freezing conditions, making it unsafe for students to attend school. Additionally, some regions have extended winter vacations to align with local festivals or unforeseen weather changes such as snowfall in hilly areas.
These closures provide students with much-needed rest after the festive season while ensuring their safety in adverse weather conditions.
School Closures in January 2025
| State/Region | School Closing Date | School Reopening Date |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | January 1, 2025 | January 15, 2025 |
| Punjab | December 24, 2024 | January 8, 2025 |
| Haryana | January 1, 2025 | January 16, 2025 |
| Uttar Pradesh (Noida) | December 31, 2024 | Until further notice |
| Rajasthan | December 25, 2024 | January 5, 2025 |
| Jammu & Kashmir | December 10, 2024 | February 28, 2025 |
| Madhya Pradesh | December 31, 2024 | January 6, 2025 |
| Jharkhand | December 25, 2024 | January 6, 2025 |
State-Wise Details of School Closures
Delhi
Schools in Delhi are closed from January 1 to January 15, following the academic calendar. The decision was made considering the cold wave conditions and dense fog that disrupt morning commutes for students.
Punjab
In Punjab, winter vacations were extended due to the ongoing cold wave. Schools were initially set to reopen on January 1 but will now resume on January 8.
Haryana
Haryana has declared winter holidays from January 1 to January 15, with schools reopening on January 16. This applies to both government and private institutions.
Uttar Pradesh
In Noida and Ghaziabad (Uttar Pradesh), all schools up to Class VIII are closed until further notice due to severe cold. The District Magistrate issued this order to protect young children from exposure to harsh weather.
Rajasthan
Schools in Rajasthan are closed till January 5, but authorities may extend the holidays if cold conditions persist.
Jammu & Kashmir
In Jammu & Kashmir, schools for classes up to V are closed from December 10, while higher classes remain shut until February-end due to snowfall and freezing temperatures.
Madhya Pradesh
Schools in Madhya Pradesh reopened on January 6, following a brief winter break that lasted from December-end.
Jharkhand
Winter vacations in Jharkhand ended on January 6, with schools resuming normal operations thereafter.
Reasons Behind Extended Closures
- Cold Wave: Northern states experience sub-zero temperatures during this time of year.
- Dense Fog: Poor visibility makes commuting dangerous for students.
- Snowfall: Hilly regions like Jammu & Kashmir face heavy snowfall.
- Health Concerns: Prolonged exposure to cold can lead to illnesses among children.
- Festive Celebrations: Some states align holidays with festivals like Makar Sankranti and Pongal.
Benefits of School Closures
- Ensuring student safety during extreme weather.
- Providing time for students to relax and rejuvenate after year-end festivities.
- Allowing families to celebrate regional festivals together.
- Reducing health risks associated with exposure to cold conditions.
Challenges Faced Due to Closures
- Learning Loss: Prolonged breaks can disrupt academic continuity.
- Parental Concerns: Working parents may struggle with childcare during unscheduled holidays.
- Board Exam Preparations: Students preparing for board exams may face difficulties without regular classes.
- Digital Divide: Online learning is not accessible to all students during closures.
How Parents and Students Can Stay Prepared
- Ensure children stay warm indoors and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities.
- Use online resources or home tutoring to maintain academic progress.
- Stay updated on reopening dates through official announcements.
- Encourage participation in indoor activities like reading or creative projects.
Conclusion
The closure of schools and colleges in January 2025 reflects a proactive approach by state governments to prioritize student safety amid harsh winter conditions. While these breaks offer relief from extreme weather, it is essential for parents and educators to ensure that learning continues at home. As schools prepare to reopen gradually across states, students can look forward to resuming their academic journey refreshed and ready for the challenges ahead.
