The Jammu and Kashmir School Education Department has released the official winter vacation calendar for all government and recognised private schools up to the Higher Secondary level across the Kashmir Division and the winter-zone areas of Jammu. The announcement comes as the region continues to face sharp temperature drops and harsh winter conditions.
Vacation Dates by Class
Under the new schedule, pre-primary classes will begin their winter break on November 26, 2025, with schools set to reopen on March 1, 2026.
Students in Classes 1 to 8 will close for vacation from December 1, 2025, and return to school on March 1, 2026.
For Classes 9 to 12, the winter break will run from December 11, 2025, to February 22, 2026, with classes resuming the same day.
Staff Required to Stay Available
Despite the vacation period, the department has directed all teaching staff to remain available for academic duties. Teachers must report to their schools by February 20, 2026, to prepare classrooms and complete academic planning before students return.
Strict Compliance Ordered
Officials cited extreme cold as the primary reason for implementing the break, noting that the weather has made routine school operations increasingly difficult. School administrations and staff have been warned to strictly follow the issued schedule. Any non-compliance, the department stated, will result in disciplinary action.
The government emphasized that maintaining the academic calendar without disruption is a key priority, and the advance preparation expected during the break is crucial for a smooth reopening.
