Educational institutions across the Kashmir Valley resumed academic activities as schools reopened after the annual winter vacation. Students returned to classrooms on Monday, marking the start of the new academic session after several months of closure due to the harsh winter season.
The winter vacation schedule is a regular practice in Kashmir, where severe cold and snowfall make it difficult for schools to function normally during the winter months. For the 2025–26 academic year, holidays for many classes began in November and December and continued until the end of February.
However, the reopening of schools was slightly delayed this year. Authorities had temporarily closed schools and colleges earlier in March as a precautionary measure following tensions and protests linked to developments in West Asia. The closure, initially planned for two days, was later extended until March 7 to ensure safety and maintain public order.
With the situation improving, the Jammu and Kashmir government allowed educational institutions to reopen. Education Minister Sakina Itoo confirmed that schools and colleges across the region would resume normal functioning once conditions were deemed peaceful.
Education officials instructed school authorities and teachers to warmly welcome students back on the first day of reopening. They emphasized creating a positive and encouraging environment so that students can smoothly resume their studies after the long winter break.
The reopening has brought renewed energy to classrooms across the Valley as thousands of students begin their academic activities for the new term. Schools are also expected to focus on completing postponed exams and covering the curriculum that was delayed due to the extended break.