Schools Reopen in Non-Border Districts of Jammu, Kashmir, and Punjab as India-Pakistan Ceasefire Holds

In a significant development following the recent military tensions between India and Pakistan, schools across non-border districts in Jammu and Kashmir have reopened. This resumption of educational activities signals a tentative return to normalcy in several regions, although institutions in border districts remain closed due to ongoing security concerns.

Background: Tensions Escalated After Operation Sindoor

The temporary closure of educational institutions was triggered by escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, following Operation Sindoor conducted by the Indian armed forces. In response to the volatile situation, authorities issued a directive on May 12 mandating the closure of all schools and colleges (except medical colleges) across Jammu and Kashmir on May 13.

Schools Resume in Jammu’s Non-Border Districts

According to an announcement by the Divisional Commissioner of Jammu, educational institutions in the non-border districts have reopened, with operations resuming on May 13.

Districts Where Schools Have Reopened:

  • Doda

  • Kishtwar

  • Reasi

  • Ramban

This move comes after the hostilities de-escalated and a ceasefire appeared to be holding. The decision was confirmed via a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) by the Divisional Commissioner.

Border Districts Remain Closed:

Despite the return to normalcy in certain areas, all educational institutions—both private and government—in the following border districts will remain closed:

  • Kathua

  • Jammu

  • Rajouri

  • Poonch

  • Samba

  • Udhampur

These closures are attributed to the persistent security threat due to their proximity to the India-Pakistan border.

Schools Reopen in Kashmir’s Non-Border Districts

Similar directives were followed in the Kashmir Valley. Based on the May 12 order from the Director of School Education, Kashmir, schools reopened in non-border districts on May 13.

Districts Where Schools Have Reopened:

All non-border districts except those near the Line of Control (LoC) resumed classes.

Areas Where Schools Remain Closed:

  • Kupwara

  • Baramulla

  • Gurez Sub-Division of Bandipora

These areas are in close proximity to the border and remain under heightened alert.

Educational Institutions Reopen in Punjab’s Non-Border Districts

In Punjab, authorities have also allowed schools to reopen in select non-border districts following the suspension of hostilities.

Districts Where Schools Have Reopened:

  • Gurdaspur

  • Sangrur

  • Barnala

However, precautionary closures continue in the state's border districts. In Amritsar, for instance, while schools remain shut, universities and colleges have been allowed to conduct classes online to ensure continuity in education without compromising student safety.

A Step Toward Stability Amid Continued Vigilance

The reopening of schools in non-border districts across Jammu, Kashmir, and Punjab reflects cautious optimism as tensions between India and Pakistan subside. While these steps mark progress toward restoring normalcy, the continued closure of educational institutions in vulnerable border areas underscores the persistent challenges in maintaining security and stability in these sensitive regions.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies

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