Delhi schools will close on November 25, 2025 , to observe the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced the public holiday. District administrations are expected to issue official orders confirming the closure.
Holiday Announcement
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta posted the holiday declaration on X. She stated the Delhi Government’s decision to declare November 25, 2025, as a holiday. The announcement commemorates the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji. Gupta highlighted Guru Sahib’s message of courage, compassion, and freedom of faith.
Ongoing School Disruptions: Air Quality
The upcoming holiday adds to existing disruptions for Delhi’s educational institutions. Schools and colleges in the capital are already operating under restrictions due to severe air quality. The government previously directed all institutions to postpone physical competitions and other sports events. This directive follows advisories from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).
Sports Events Postponed
The Directorate of Education and Sports issued instructions to all institutions. This includes government-aided, private schools, and those run by MCD, NDMC, and the Delhi Cantonment Board. All entities must comply with the CAQM’s advisory on air pollution. This measure aims to protect student health from the severe air quality index (AQI) levels.
Student Petition in High Court
A group of school students petitioned the Delhi High Court. They sought a directive to postpone tournaments and trials for outdoor sports. Their request specifically targeted the peak pollution months, from November to January. The students argued for health protection during periods of hazardous air quality.
Hybrid Learning Mandate
Earlier, the Centre invoked Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 3 restrictions in Delhi-NCR. This occurred after the AQI reached the “severe” category. Following this, the Delhi government mandated a shift to hybrid learning for classes up to 5th grade. This policy allowed younger students to attend classes both physically and online. It aimed to reduce exposure to polluted air while maintaining educational continuity.
Understanding GRAP Stage 3
GRAP Stage 3 is implemented when the AQI ranges between 401 and 450, categorized as ‘Severe’. Measures under this stage include restrictions on construction activities, non-essential services, and certain vehicle movements. The education sector typically sees advisories on outdoor activities and, if necessary, adjustments to school timings or modes of instruction. These measures are designed to mitigate the health impact of extreme pollution levels on residents, especially vulnerable groups like children.
What This Means for Students
Students and parents should monitor official communications from their respective schools and district administrations. While the Chief Minister has declared the holiday, school-specific notifications confirm the closure. The ongoing air quality concerns mean outdoor activities and sports events remain subject to postponement or cancellation. Staying informed through official channels ensures awareness of changes to school schedules and activities.