Jammu and Kashmir announces winter vacation for schools: Pre-primary classes to start break from tomorrow

Winter vacations have been announced for schools in Kashmir and Jammu’s winter zones, with staggered start and end dates for different classes. Pre-primary students begin their break on November 26, 2025, while higher secondary students start on December 11. Teachers must report back by February 20, 2026, for academic preparations. Strict action awaits non-compliance.

The Jammu and Kashmir School Education Department on Tuesday issued the winter vacation schedule for all government and recognised private schools up to the Higher Secondary level in the Kashmir Division and the winter-zone areas of Jammu Division, according to a report by PTI. The schedule, outlined in Government Order No. 665-JK (Edu) of 2025, sets precise closure and reopening dates for different classes, while mandating teacher availability for academic preparation during the break. Authorities cited the steep drop in temperatures and extreme winter conditions across the region as the primary reason for the schedule. The government also warned that any violation by school heads or teaching staff will attract strict action under existing rules.

Winter vacation schedule by class

PTI reported that the winter vacation will begin for pre-primary students on November 26, 2025, and continue until February 28, 2026, with schools reopening on March 1, 2026. Students of classes 1 to 8 will observe the break from December 1, 2025, to February 28, 2026, reopening on March 1. Higher secondary students, from classes 9 to 12, will have their winter vacation from December 11, 2025, to February 22, 2026, resuming classes on February 22, 2026.

Teacher availability during winter break

According to PTI, all teaching faculty are required to remain available for academic work during the vacation period. Teachers must report to their respective schools by February 20, 2026, to prepare classrooms and academic plans before reopening. The government emphasised that strict action will be taken against staff who fail to comply with these instructions, underlining the importance of maintaining continuity in the academic schedule despite the break.

Government warning on compliance

The winter vacation has been scheduled due to temperatures in Kashmir Division dipping several degrees below freezing over the past week. The winter-zone areas of Jammu also experience extreme cold conditions during this period, making regular school operations difficult. Authorities stated that the break ensures student safety and provides sufficient time for school staff to plan and organise academic activities effectively.The government has directed school heads and teaching staff to strictly adhere to the schedule, PTI reported. Any violation or negligence will result in disciplinary action under existing rules. Officials stressed that advance preparation during the break is essential to avoid disruption in the academic calendar and to ensure smooth functioning of schools once classes resume.

(With inputs from PTI)