The long winter vacation is finally coming to an end for students across North India. Today, Monday, 19th January 2026, marks the official reopening date for schools in many states, including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab.
However, going back to school isn’t simple for everyone today. While the official “winter break” dates are over, severe weather conditions and pollution levels have forced authorities to introduce new rules. Some schools are shifting to online classes, while others have changed their opening times.
Here is the latest state-wise update on school reopenings and extended holidays.
Delhi NCR: Pollution Rules (GRAP 4) Return
In Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), the winter vacation was scheduled to end on January 15, with schools reopening today. However, a sudden rise in air pollution has complicated things.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) has crossed the “Severe” mark. In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked GRAP Stage 4 (Graded Response Action Plan) restrictions.
- What this means for schools: Under GRAP 4, state governments usually stop physical (offline) classes for younger students (up to Class 5 or 8) to protect their health.
- Current Status: Many private and government schools may shift to online mode starting today. Parents are advised to check official messages from their specific schools before sending children out.
Uttar Pradesh: New Timings and Prayagraj Holiday
In Uttar Pradesh, the situation varies by district. While the general winter vacation has ended, the cold wave is still strong.
Noida and Ghaziabad (Revised Timings)
Schools in Noida (Gautam Buddh Nagar) and Ghaziabad are reopening today, January 19. However, the district administration has ordered revised school timings due to dense fog and cold mornings.
- New Time: Schools will operate between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
- This rule applies to all boards (CBSE, ICSE, UP Board) for classes Nursery to Class 8.
Prayagraj (Closed for Magh Mela)
Students in Prayagraj have an extended holiday, but not just because of the cold. Schools up to Class 8 will remain closed until January 20, 2026.
- Reason: Heavy crowds are expected in the city for the Magh Mela and religious bathing festivals like Makar Sankranti and Mauni Amavasya.
- Classes are expected to resume on January 21.
Punjab and Haryana: Cold Wave Alerts
The winter chill is still severe in Punjab and Haryana, forcing authorities to prioritize student safety over regular schedules.
- Punjab: Schools are open from today, but timings have been changed. All government and private schools will open at 10:00 AM and close by 3:00 PM (for primary) or 3:20 PM (for secondary) until January 21.
- Haryana: The extended winter break officially ended on January 17. Schools are reopening today, January 19, for regular classes.
Other Important School News
- Pune (Maharashtra): Schools in Pune will be closed tomorrow, Tuesday, January 20, due to the “Pune Grand Tour 2026” cycling event, which will cause road blockages.
- South India: Schools in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh are reopening today after the Pongal and Sankranti festival holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is the winter vacation extended in Delhi?
Technically, the winter vacation ended on January 15. However, due to high pollution (GRAP 4), many schools might conduct online classes instead of physical classes starting January 19.
Q2: What are the new school timings in Noida?
Due to the cold wave, schools in Noida and Greater Noida will operate from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM for students up to Class 8.
Q3: Why are schools closed in Prayagraj?
Schools in Prayagraj are closed until January 20, 2026, to manage the heavy traffic and crowds gathering for the Magh Mela religious festival.
Q4: Are schools in Haryana open today?
Yes, schools in Haryana are reopening today, January 19, after their winter break extension ended on Saturday.
Q5: Will online classes happen if schools are closed?
Yes, in most cases like Delhi (pollution) or Prayagraj (festival crowds), schools are encouraged to hold online classes so students do not miss their lessons.