Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar,(DD): The Jammu and Kashmir Government has once again revised school timings across the Valley following widespread public feedback and a noticeable drop in day temperatures caused by recent rainfall.
Education Minister Sakeena Itoo, while speaking to reporters on today, said the decision was taken after receiving numerous calls from concerned parents and even young students who were struggling with early school schedules in the chilly mornings.
“I was getting calls from parents and even small kids about the change in school timings. Many were worried about children having to leave early in the morning when the temperature was still quite low, especially after the recent rainfall,” said Itoo.
“After discussing the matter with the Director of School Education and reviewing the prevailing weather conditions, we decided to revise the school timings in accordance with public feedback and for the well-being of the students,” she added.
As per the new schedule, schools falling within the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) limits will now operate from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm, while schools outside the SMC jurisdiction will function from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. The changes have been implemented with immediate effect.
The decision comes after several days of intermittent rainfall in the Valley, which led to a dip in morning temperatures, especially in upper and rural areas. Reports from school heads and zonal education officers highlighted challenges faced by students, including low attendance and minor cold-related illnesses.
Parents have welcomed the government’s move. “It becomes difficult for young children to wake up early and leave home in cold and wet conditions. We appreciate the prompt response from the minister,” said Yasmeen Gulzar, a parent from Bemina.
Students, too, expressed relief over the revised timings, saying the additional time in the morning would help them get ready comfortably and reduce stress.
This is the second time in recent weeks that school timings have been altered in Kashmir. The Education Department has maintained that it will continue to make student-centric decisions based on weather patterns and public input (DD)