Has the J&K Government Declared Winter Vacation for Schools in the Valley?
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Synopsis
As winter approaches with temperatures falling, the Jammu and Kashmir government has announced winter vacations for schools in the Valley, affecting all grades. This timely decision aims to safeguard students from the harsh winter conditions that make commuting difficult.
Key Takeaways
- Winter vacation for pre-primary classes: November 26 to February 28, 2026.
- Classes 1-8 vacation: December 1 to February 28, 2026.
- Classes 9-12 vacation: December 11 to February 22, 2026.
- Current temperature in Srinagar: minus 3.1 degrees Celsius.
- 'Chillai Kalan' period from December 21 to January 30 each year.
Srinagar, Nov 25 (NationPress) Due to the early onset of winter, with nighttime temperatures plummeting significantly below freezing, the government of Jammu and Kashmir has declared a winter break for schools in the Valley. An announcement by Ram Niwas Sharma, IAS, who serves as the Secretary of the School Education Department, indicated that all pre-primary (Balvatika) classes in the Valley will be on winter vacation from November 26 to February 28, 2026.
According to the directive, classes from 1st to 8th standard will also be on winter break, starting from December 1 and concluding on February 28, 2026. Meanwhile, winter vacations for students in classes 9 to 12 will commence on December 11 and last until February 22, 2026.
The Kashmir Valley has been experiencing a severe cold wave for the past week, with the minimum temperature in Srinagar recorded at minus 3.1 degrees Celsius on Tuesday.
Other areas in the Valley, including Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Kokernag, and Qazigund, have also reported nighttime temperatures below freezing.
Chilly winds blowing down from the snow-capped mountains have made it challenging for pedestrians and motorists, particularly schoolchildren, to navigate the mornings.
Most government schools in the Valley lack proper heating facilities in classrooms, exacerbating the difficulties faced by students.
Slippery roads, streets, and narrow lanes complicate movement in densely populated areas.
The coldest period of winter, known as 'Chillai Kalan', will begin on December 21 and continue until January 30 each year.
During this time, all water bodies in the Valley—including rivers, streams, and lakes—are likely to freeze partially or completely, as minimum temperatures can drop to minus 5 to minus 7 degrees Celsius, while the temperature difference between day and night also decreases.
Last week, Srinagar registered the coldest night of the season, with temperatures hitting minus 2.8 degrees Celsius.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the complexities surrounding education in extreme weather conditions. The government’s swift decision to implement winter breaks reflects a commitment to student welfare amidst natural adversities, ensuring that educational institutions prioritize health and safety during the harsh winter months.
NationPress
25/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What dates are schools in the Valley closed for winter vacation?
Schools in the Valley will be closed for winter vacation from November 26 to February 28, 2026, for pre-primary classes. Classes 1 to 8 will have vacation from December 1 to February 28, and classes 9 to 12 from December 11 to February 22.
What temperatures have been recorded in Srinagar recently?
Srinagar has recently recorded temperatures as low as minus 3.1 degrees Celsius, indicating a significant drop as winter sets in.
Why are winter vacations important for students?
Winter vacations are important for students to protect their health and safety during extreme cold conditions, making it difficult to commute and attend school.
