Uttar Pradesh schools will operate on December 25 , observing a working day instead of the traditional Christmas holiday. The state government announced this directive to commemorate the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna and former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. This decision also marks the conclusion of his centenary birth anniversary celebrations.
The Basic Education Department, Uttar Pradesh, officially issued the order. It mandates all schools across the state to remain open and functional on December 25 . Special commemorative programmes will take place within school premises, highlighting Vajpayee’s life and contributions.
Purpose of the Working Day
The primary purpose behind declaring December 25 a working day is to honour Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Born on this date in 1924 , Vajpayee was a pivotal figure in Indian politics, serving as Prime Minister three times. His birthday is widely observed as ‘Good Governance Day’ in recognition of his commitment to transparent and accountable administration. The state’s decision ensures widespread remembrance of his legacy among students and educators during the culmination of his 100th birth year celebrations.
Mandatory Attendance and Programmes
The government’s directive is clear: all educational institutions, from primary to secondary levels, must ensure attendance on December 25 . Schools are instructed to organize specific events. These programmes could include discussions, speeches, cultural presentations, or educational activities focused on Vajpayee’s ideals and achievements. The aim is to educate students about his historical significance and his role in shaping modern India. Students and teachers are expected to participate actively in these commemorative events.
Distinction from Cold Wave Closures
This state-level mandate for December 25 operates independently of local school closures due to severe cold conditions. Uttar Pradesh has experienced a significant cold wave, leading various district administrations to temporarily shut schools or adjust timings. However, these temporary measures do not override the requirement for schools to open on December 25 . The Basic Education Department has clarified that while cold-related directives apply on other days, all schools must be operational for the Vajpayee commemoration.
Local authorities issued the following specific directives regarding cold weather-related school schedules:
| District | Affected Classes | Date of Closure/Change | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Varanasi | Nursery to Class 5 | December 24 | Schools remained closed. Announced by District Basic Education Officer Anurag Srivastava. |
| Mirzapur | Nursery to Class 8 | December 24 | Schools across UP Board, CBSE, and ICSE curricula remained closed. Announced by District Magistrate Pawan Kumar Gangwar. |
| Farrukhabad | Nursery to Class 12 | December 23 | Schools remained closed. |
| Raebareli | Pre-primary to Class 8 | December 23 | Schools remained closed. |
| Sambhal | Nursery to Class 12 | December 24 | Schools remained closed. |
| Jhansi | Classes 1 to 8 | From December 23 onwards | School timings revised to operate from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Announced by District Magistrate Mridul Chaudhary. |
Guidance for Students and Parents
Students, parents, and school staff should consider December 25 a mandatory school day dedicated to commemorative activities. While the order ensures schools function, the exact daily schedule for that day may differ from a regular academic day. It is crucial for families to confirm specific programme details directly with their child’s school administration. This will ensure clarity on attendance expectations, event timings, and the nature of the commemorative activities planned.
About Atal Bihari Vajpayee
Atal Bihari Vajpayee was a prominent statesman, poet, and orator. His political career spanned decades, marked by his leadership of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and his tenure as Prime Minister of India. He received the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour, in 2015 . His vision for India included economic development, national security, and diplomatic outreach. The ongoing centenary celebrations aim to keep his ideals alive and inspire future generations.
Looking Ahead
The Basic Education Department expects all schools to comply with the directive for December 25 . Further specific guidelines for the commemorative programmes may be issued by individual district education authorities or school managements. Students are advised to prepare for a day focused on learning about and reflecting upon the legacy of a significant national leader.