In response to the ongoing heatwave conditions, the Ministry of Education has issued a school alert confirming revised school timings starting 15 June 2025. States including Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and parts of Maharashtra will implement earlier start and closure times to protect children from peak afternoon temperatures.
The circular, sent to all district education offices and school management committees, highlights health concerns for students attending classes during severe heat spells. The decision is part of a broader plan to adapt educational operations to changing climate realities across India.
The school alert emphasizes strict implementation of morning-only sessions, availability of drinking water, and exemption from outdoor activities until further notice.
New Timing Guidelines by State
The updated school alert lists revised schedules for both government and private schools. Here’s a summary of the new school timings by region:
| State | Revised Timing | Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | 7:00 AM – 11:30 AM | Govt and Private Schools |
| Rajasthan | 6:45 AM – 11:00 AM | Govt Schools |
| Bihar | 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM | All Board-Affiliated Schools |
| Madhya Pradesh | 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM | Urban and Semi-Urban Schools |
| Maharashtra | 7:30 AM – 12:00 Noon | Primary and Secondary Institutions |
These timings are effective from 15 June 2025 until the heatwave subsides. District magistrates will have authority to extend or shorten the period depending on local conditions.
Health and Safety Instructions for Students
The school alert also includes essential safety measures to ensure the well-being of students and teachers. All schools must:
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Ensure drinking water is available in all classrooms
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Avoid outdoor sports, assemblies, or PT classes
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Encourage students to wear light-colored cotton uniforms
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Monitor for heatstroke symptoms and maintain medical readiness
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Promote hydration breaks every hour
Special care must be taken for children below 10 years and those in government mid-day meal programs, which will now be served earlier in the day.
Impact on School Bus Services and Parents
Transport departments across affected states have been notified to adjust their bus schedules accordingly. Early pickups and drop-offs will now begin as early as 6:00 AM in some areas, prompting concerns from parents regarding safety and supervision.
To address this, the school alert advises schools to coordinate with local police for morning patrolling in sensitive zones. Parent-teacher associations are also being encouraged to conduct feedback meetings after the first week of implementation to identify any challenges.
Academic Calendar Adjustments Not Needed
Despite the timing change, the Ministry has clarified that there will be no academic loss. Teachers have been asked to prioritize core subjects in the reduced hours, while co-curricular activities will resume once regular schedules are restored.
As per the school alert, the existing holiday calendar, term exams, and assessment dates remain unchanged. Education boards will continue to monitor schools through district-level review committees to ensure learning continuity.
States Not Affected by the School Timing Change
Southern and coastal states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka have not received the revised school alert since current weather conditions are moderate. However, the circular states that these areas must remain ready to implement revised timings if temperature thresholds cross safe limits.
States in the northeast, including Sikkim and Nagaland, will continue with existing school schedules, with updates to follow if heat conditions worsen.
FAQs
Which states are implementing the new school timings from 15 June 2025?
States such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra have issued revised timings due to the ongoing heatwave.
Will the shortened school timings affect exams or syllabus completion?
No, the education boards have confirmed that exams and the academic calendar will continue as scheduled. Core subjects will be prioritized during the shorter school hours.
Are private schools also required to follow the revised timings?
Yes, the government has directed both government and private institutions to follow the new school alert guidelines uniformly.
What safety measures are being taken for children in high-temperature zones?
The government has mandated drinking water availability, suspension of outdoor activities, and increased health monitoring to safeguard students.
Until when will the new school timings be applicable?
These revised timings will remain in force until weather conditions improve. District magistrates have the authority to extend the changes if needed.
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