Schools to remain closed in THESE states today due to…; Check state-wise list here
Extreme cold waves, increased pollution and local holidays are causing school closures and schedule changes in India on 19 December 2025. Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Goa, Jammu & Kashmir and Tamil Nadu are among the affected states, with some schools shifting to online or hybrid modes.
As extreme weather conditions and rising pollution levels affect large parts of India, some states are announcing changes to school schedules, closures and holiday breaks. Here’s a detailed update for students, parents, and teachers on school hours, closures, and holiday announcements in various districts on December 19, 2025.
Winter Guidelines and School Timings in North India
Northern India continues to grapple with severe fog and cold waves, especially in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan. To ensure the safety and convenience of students, many schools have changed their timings or switched to online classes. Due to the ongoing cold waves in Uttar Pradesh, schools have been closed and will remain closed until further notice. Similarly, various districts in Haryana, Rajasthan and Punjab have also issued winter guidelines and are following adjusted school timings.
Delhi and NCR: Schools Close Due to Pollution
The national capital Delhi and surrounding areas, including Delhi NCR, are experiencing an alarming rise in pollution levels with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing the 450 mark. The Delhi government has rolled out Phase 4 of the Gradual Response Action Plan (GRAP), resulting in stringent measures to control air pollution. Within the scope of this regulation, schools for grades up to the 5th grade will remain closed until further notice. 6-11. Grade 1 students will follow a hybrid model, attending school both online and offline; 10th and 12th grade students will need to attend school in person as usual. Additionally, offices in Delhi are also required to operate with 50% of the workforce working from home.
Goa: School Holidays due to Goa Liberation Day
Students in Goa will enjoy the holiday today, 19 December 2025, to celebrate Goa Liberation Day. This day marks the end of Portuguese rule over the state in 1961. Schools in Goa are usually closed for the celebration of this important local holiday. Students are encouraged to contact their schools for any last-minute updates or confirmations regarding the closure.
Noida: Hybrid Classrooms Amid Rising Pollution
While schools in Noida were not closed today, authorities issued guidelines due to deteriorating weather and air quality. Online classes for students in kindergarten through Grade 5 will continue until further notice. Students in Grade 6 and above will participate in a hybrid learning model, alternating between online and offline classes. The winter vacation schedule for schools in Noida is expected to be approved in the coming weeks.
Jammu and Kashmir: Seasonal Holiday Continues
In Jammu and Kashmir, winter has resulted in the closure of schools in most districts for a week from 13 to 19 December 2025. Given the region’s extreme winter conditions, this closure affects all schools through Grade 8. The season break is consistent with the state’s winter break policy and schools will reopen following the planned break.
Tamil Nadu: Post Holiday Extension Exams
In Tamil Nadu, schools will close after six months of examinations, which usually take place around Christmas. This year, starting from Christmas Eve, the holiday period will be increased to 12 days, allowing students to have a longer holiday before the start of the new year.
Due to ongoing cold waves, air pollution, and local holidays, students in various states are experiencing different school schedules and closures. Parents and students are advised to stay updated by checking official school notices regularly to stay informed about any other changes in timings or closures.
