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Jharkhand has changed school timings across the state as rising temperatures and a severe heatwave continue to impact daily life. As the mercury temperature crosses the 40°C mark in several districts, authorities have introduced new measures to protect students from extreme weather conditions during school hours.
Under the revised timetable, all schools will now start classes early in the morning, from 7am, to ensure students complete their sessions before peak heat times. The decision was taken at the district level and will be implemented in all government, aided, minority-run and private schools from April 21, 2026.
What are the new school timings in Jharkhand?
The state has introduced a uniform time structure for all schools in order to reduce students’ heat exposure.
- KG up to grade 8: 7:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m
- Grade 9 to Grade 12: 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m
- teachers and staff: 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (for non-scientific work)
Authorities have said the revised timings are aimed at ensuring students are not exposed to harsh afternoon temperatures while maintaining academic continuity.
New school timings in Jharkhand: Why has Jharkhand changed school timings?
The decision comes in response to a sharp rise in temperatures across the state, with several regions recording temperatures above 40°C. The extreme heat has raised health concerns, particularly among schoolchildren who are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
District administrations, including Ranchi, have implemented the order as per the directions of the Department of School Education and Literacy. Officials have stressed that the schedule remains in effect until further notice, depending on weather conditions.
Jharkhand New School Timings: Official Order and Government Statement
Ranchi district magistrate and deputy commissioner Manjunath Bhajantri confirmed the revised schedule through an official order.
He explained that the new time structure would apply uniformly to all categories of schools including government, aided, unaided (including minority institutions) and private schools in the district.
The order reflects a coordinated effort between state and district authorities to ensure student safety during the ongoing heat wave.
New school timings in Jharkhand: Teachers stay longer for non-academic work
While students will be given the option to leave schools early, teachers and non-teaching staff will continue to remain in schools until 1 p.m. During this additional time, they will focus on administrative and non-academic tasks.
Officials have made it clear that this agreement ensures the continuity of institutional work while prioritizing student safety during peak heat periods.
Heat wave conditions across Jharkhand
Several parts of Jharkhand are currently experiencing severe heat waves with temperatures crossing the 40°C mark. This has led to precautionary measures by local governments to reduce outdoor exposure during the hottest part of the day.
Schools and district officials have been directed to closely monitor conditions and ensure compliance with the revised schedule.
Similar measures in other states
Jharkhand is not the only state adjusting school schedules due to rising temperatures. In Odisha, several districts have shifted classes to early morning hours to ensure schools function during cooler times of the day and close before the peak of the heat.
Similarly, Telangana has introduced heat safety advisories in schools, including drinking breaks, shaded rest areas and restrictions on outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day. The aim of these measures is to protect students from heat-related health risks.
Across states, the common approach is to prioritize early morning (MON) times so that academic activities can be completed before the midday heat increases.
