Latest Update (January 14, 2026): The Punjab Government has officially extended the winter holidays in all schools due to the severe cold wave and dense fog. According to the latest orders from Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, all government, private, and aided schools in Punjab remained closed until January 13, 2026.
As of today, Wednesday, January 14, 2026, schools are scheduled to reopen and resume regular classes. However, due to the ongoing “Red Alert” for cold weather issued by the Meteorological Department, there is confusion among parents and students about further extensions. This article clarifies the official status, the confusion regarding the “January 19” extension, and what you should do next.
Punjab School Holidays 2026: Key Highlights
The winter break in Punjab has been extended multiple times this season as the temperature continues to drop.
- State: Punjab (India)
- Order By: Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains
- Reason: Severe Cold Wave and Dense Fog
- Last Official Extension: Till January 13, 2026 (Tuesday)
- Reopening Date: January 14, 2026 (Wednesday)
- School Timing: likely to be changed (e.g., 10:00 AM) for safety.
Official Orders: Holidays Extended till January 13
Earlier this week, the Punjab School Education Department announced that the winter vacation would continue until January 13. This decision was taken under the directives of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to ensure the safety and health of school children.
The notification applied to:
- All Government Schools
- Government Aided Schools
- Recognized Private Schools
- Anganwadi Centers
Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains confirmed this news on his official social media handles, stating that the intense fog made early morning travel dangerous for students.
Will Holidays Be Extended Further (After Jan 14)?
This is the biggest question right now. As of the morning of January 14, 2026, no new official notification has been released extending the holidays beyond January 13. Technically, schools are open today.
However, parents should remain alert because:
- Red Alert Issued: The weather department has predicted that cold wave conditions will persist in Punjab for the next few days.
- Teacher Demands: Several teachers’ unions have requested the government to extend the break until January 20, 2026, citing the extreme chill.
- Local Administration Power: In some districts, Deputy Commissioners (DCs) have the power to announce local holidays if the weather is too severe.
Recommendation: Before sending your child to school today, check your school’s official WhatsApp group or message board for any last-minute changes.
Confusion: Punjab (Pakistan) vs. Punjab (India)
A major confusion is spreading on social media regarding an extension till January 19, 2026. Please note that this news is from Punjab, Pakistan, not India.
- Punjab (India): Schools reopening on Jan 14.
- Punjab (Pakistan): Winter holidays extended till Jan 19 due to cold.
Do not get confused by forward messages that do not specify the country. Always verify news from the official handle of the Punjab Education Minister or trusted Indian news outlets.
Impact on School Timings
Even though schools are reopening, the timings may be changed to provide relief from the morning cold. Usually, during such weather, the state government changes the school opening time to 10:00 AM. Students and parents must check with their respective school administration for the revised time table.
FAQs on Punjab School Holidays
Q1: Are schools in Punjab closed today (January 14, 2026)?
Officially, the winter break ended on January 13. Schools are scheduled to reopen today, January 14, unless a fresh order is issued by the government or local district administration this morning.
Q2: Is the news about holidays till January 19 true?
that news is for Punjab province in Pakistan. For Punjab (India), the confirmed extension was only till January 13.
Q3: Who announced the winter vacation extension?
The extension was announced by Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains on the directives of CM Bhagwant Mann.
Q4: Will there be online classes?
The government has not mandated online classes yet. However, private schools may opt for online sessions if the physical schools remain closed or if they choose to do so for student safety.
Q5: How can I check the official notification?
You can check the official X (Twitter) account of Minister Harjot Singh Bains (@harjotbains) or the Department of School Education, Punjab website.