Jammu/Srinagar: Confusion has gripped parents and students across Jammu & Kashmir regarding school holidays following the heavy snowfall on Jan 23-24. While rumors of a blanket “Winter Vacation Extension” are circulating, the administration has issued district-specific closure orders rather than a UT-wide extension. Here is the official breakdown for Summer and Winter zones.
The Latest Orders (Jan 24, 2026)
Due to hazardous road conditions and snow accumulation, Deputy Commissioners in the following districts have ordered temporary closures for safety:
- Rajouri: All schools closed until further notice.
- Poonch: Schools closed due to snow on Tota Gali and high-altitude areas.
- Reasi & Udhampur: Schools in snow-bound belts ordered shut to prevent accidents.
Clarification: Summer vs. Winter Zone
Jammu Summer Zone: The official winter vacation extension ended on January 17, 2026. Most schools in the plains (Jammu, Samba, and Kathua plains) are OPEN.
Note for Kathua: While schools in Kathua town are open, institutions in the hilly zones (Bani, Basohli, Billawar) may be closed due to snow. Please check specific local orders.
Kashmir & Winter Zones: Schools remain officially closed. The reopening schedule (per Govt Order No. 665-JK (Edu) of 2025) is staggered:
- Classes 9–12: Vacation ends Feb 22. Schools reopen Feb 23, 2026 (Monday).
- Classes Nursery–8: Vacation ends Feb 28. Schools reopen March 2, 2026 (Monday).
Key Highlights: What Parents Must Know
- General Rule: If you live in Jammu, Samba, or Kathua (plains), schools are functional unless your specific school sends a message.
- Hill Districts: If you live in Rajouri, Poonch, Doda, or Kishtwar, check for the daily order from your Deputy Commissioner (DC) due to the avalanche warning.
- Helpline: Parents can contact their respective Chief Education Officer (CEO) for confirmation.
FAQ Section
A: No general weather-related closure has been issued for Jammu City. However, since Jan 24 is the 4th Saturday of the month, most Government schools and offices are observing their standard holiday. Private schools are functional unless they have declared a specific holiday.
A: It is too early to say. The Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) typically reviews weather conditions in late February before making a decision.
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AUTHORSHIP & TRANSPARENCY
- Reported by: KittoNews Desk
- Edited by: Senior Desk
- Source Transparency: “Closure details based on orders from Deputy Commissioners of Rajouri and Poonch. Vacation dates based on Govt Order No. 665-JK (Edu) of 2025.”
- Community Question: “Do you think schools in Jammu should have a longer winter break given the cold wave? Vote in our poll below.”
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