School Holidays: Schools closed in UP, Bihar, Jharkhand and other states amid severe cold wave; full list here

School Closed

As 2025 comes to an end, a severe cold wave and dense fog are sweeping across northern India, prompting state administrations to take immediate action for student safety. In response to plummeting temperatures and hazardous weather conditions, several state governments have announced significant extensions to winter school holidays and changes in academic schedules.

State-Wise Breakdown of School Closures and Schedule Changes

Uttar Pradesh: In one of the most decisive moves, the Uttar Pradesh government has ordered all schools to remain closed until January 1, 2026. This extension, beyond the typical winter break, is a direct response to the intense cold and persistent dense fog affecting the state, aiming to protect children from health risks associated with the harsh weather.

Bihar & Jharkhand: Following a similar pattern, districts including Patna, Saharsa, and Nalanda have mandated school closures until December 31. For higher classes where institutions remain open, school timings have been rescheduled to avoid the peak cold hours of the early morning, ensuring safer travel for students.

Himachal Pradesh: Heavy snowfall and treacherous travel conditions have led the state to declare extended winter holidays for schools, now lasting until December 31. The decision prioritizes the safety of students and staff navigating the risky mountainous terrain during this period.

Rajasthan: Schools in Rajasthan are currently observing scheduled winter holidays as per the Education Department’s official calendar. These pre-planned breaks mean institutions will remain closed, aligning with the seasonal weather patterns typical for the region.

In contrast to the northern states, the weather in South and East India remains largely unaffected by the severe cold wave. As a result, no widespread state-mandated holidays have been declared.

Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana are conducting regular classes on December 29.

Karnataka, West Bengal, and Odisha have also confirmed that Monday is a normal working day for schools.

Parents are advised to note that some private institutions in these regions may have individual closures due to internal events, but these are not part of any state-level public holiday announcement.

Official Advisories for Parents and Students

December traditionally marks the period for winter vacations across India. However, the increasing frequency of severe cold waves and dense fog, particularly in North India, has led to more frequent last-minute announcements by authorities.

• Rely on Official Channels: Students and parents should seek updates only from official government communications, education department websites, and verified school administrations.
• Prioritize Safety: During extreme weather, prioritize children's health and safety, ensuring proper winter protection if travel is necessary.
• Stay Informed: Weather conditions can change rapidly; staying informed through official meteorological updates is crucial.

The proactive measures by state administrations underscore a commitment to student welfare amid challenging weather, ensuring the new year begins with safety as a foremost priority.