School Timings Revised in Uttarakhand: New Schedule for Summer and Winter, Teachers Raise Concerns

Dehradun: The Uttarakhand government has announced a partial revision in the timings of government and private schools across the state. As per the new order issued by Education Secretary Ravinath Raman, separate schedules will now be followed for summer and winter seasons. The revised timings have been implemented with immediate effect, while all other conditions of the previous government order will remain unchanged.

According to the new schedule, during the summer season, all schools will open at 7:45 AM. The morning assembly will be held from 7:45 AM to 8:05 AM, followed by the first period from 8:05 AM to 8:45 AM. Schools will close at 2:05 PM. The change is aimed at optimizing study hours and protecting students from peak daytime heat.

In winter, schools will open later at 8:50 AM. The morning assembly will take place from 8:50 AM to 9:10 AM, and classes will continue until 3:10 PM, when schools will close. The revised winter schedule is intended to suit colder weather conditions and ensure student comfort.

However, the decision has sparked criticism from teachers. Satish Ghildiyal, State Patron of the Junior High School Teachers’ Association, expressed concerns over the extended school hours during summer. He pointed out that the new schedule increases school time by about one hour and five minutes, which may not be suitable, especially for students in plain areas.

He also highlighted challenges faced by students in hilly regions, where many children travel several kilometers on foot to attend school. According to him, the revised schedule may negatively impact students’ daily routines and overall well-being.

While the education department claims the changes are in students’ best interest, teachers’ organizations are urging the government to reconsider the decision.