Overview
- India’s Punjab set a 10:00 a.m. start for primary (10:00–3:00) and middle/high/senior secondary (10:00–3:20) schools through January 21, with a review to decide any extension.
- The Indian decision followed dense-fog and cold-wave alerts from the IMD and mounting parent and teacher appeals after low early-morning attendance and exam concerns.
- Educators in Indian Punjab say double-shift schools were not covered and have asked for a 9:00 a.m. morning start so evening shifts can finish by 5:00 p.m., with officials awaiting guidance.
- Pakistan’s Punjab issued a notification effective January 19–April 15 setting single-shift hours at 10:00 a.m.–2:15 p.m. Monday–Thursday and 10:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. on Friday, with double-shift sessions from 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. and 2:15 p.m.–4:45 p.m.
- The Pakistan notification also extends teacher duties for preparation, training and CPD, mandates attendance on alternate Saturdays, and allows a 15-minute timing adjustment by school type.