Under the directive, schools are required to offer both physical and online classes wherever feasible for students from nursery to Class XI. However, students of Class X and Class XII have been exempted from the hybrid system, with Class XII students specifically allowed to continue attending physical classes due to their upcoming board examinations. The decision has triggered criticism from students and parents, who argue that health concerns should not be compromised, especially amid hazardous pollution levels.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked all Stage IV measures on Sunday as pollution levels worsened across the capital. These include a complete ban on construction and demolition activities, restrictions on the entry of non-essential diesel trucks into Delhi, and mandatory work-from-home arrangements for 50% of government and private office staff.Education officials said the hybrid learning model aims to reduce students’ exposure to polluted air while ensuring continuity of academic activities. Schools have been instructed to strictly comply with the order until further notice.
However, the exclusion of Class XII students from the hybrid mode has sparked discontent, with several students expressing concern that their health is being overlooked in favour of examination schedules. Some students questioned why academic pressure was being prioritised when air quality had reached life-threatening levels.
As of Sunday evening, the Delhi government has not issued any notification regarding a full shutdown of schools. Authorities said the situation is being closely monitored and further decisions will be taken based on air quality trends.
Residents have been advised to limit outdoor activity, wear protective masks, and follow health advisories as pollution continues to pose serious risks across the capital.**No, Delhi schools are not fully closed on December 15, 2025.**
Despite the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching **severe levels** (up to 497 in some areas) and the invocation of **Stage IV** of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on December 13–14, 2025, the Delhi government has not ordered a complete shutdown. Instead:
- Schools remain open but have shifted to **hybrid mode** for students in Classes 1–9 and Class 11 (both physical and online options, with online attendance voluntary for parents/students where feasible).
- Classes 10 and 12 are exempted and continue physical classes normally (to support board exam preparations).
This decision, issued by the Directorate of Education on December 13, applies to all government, government-aided, and private schools under DoE, NDMC, MCD, and Delhi Cantonment Board. The hybrid approach aims to reduce exposure to polluted air while maintaining educational continuity.
Sources confirming this include reports from News9Live, India TV, Livemint, Times of India, and Hindustan Times (dated December 13–14, 2025). No updates indicate a full closure or shift to purely online classes as of December 14.
Note: Nearby areas like Noida have gone fully online in some cases, but Delhi's policy is specifically hybrid. Check official school communications for any last-minute changes.
