Schools in Lucknow & other UP districts to shut down from March 24 amid COVID scare

In view of the accelerating COVID count in Uttar Pradesh, the state government has issued directives to shut down schools for pupils of grades 1 to 8 from March 24. As per the orders, classes for the students of these grades shall remain cancelled up to March 31 on account of Holi vacation. Additionally, schools for standards 9 to 12 and colleges in the state, where examinations are not scheduled, have been instructed to be closed from March 25 to 31.

State government's move to protect children in high-risk zones

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In alignment with the announcements, all exams slated to be held between March 24 and 31 have been delayed. Alerted by an alarming hike in COVID numbers witnessed in recent times, the CM summoned a late-night meeting of the state's top officials on Monday and took these decisions. Speaking about the directives, the Basic Education Minister said, "All examinations of classes 1 to 8 stand cancelled till further notice. After March 31, depending upon the situation, we will decide whether to promote all students or extend the academic session and hold examinations in state government-run institutions."

It is to be noted that all educational institutions for grades 9 to 12 and colleges, which have pre-planned examinations between March 25 and 31, shall remain functional during this period. All pupils of such institutes shall take their tests observing strict adherence to COVID guidelines. As per the instructions, the school authorities have to make sure that all guidelines and safety measures are meticulously followed.

A list of measures being deployed by the state authorities ahead of Holi

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The state government has also initiated a list of programs to ensure that an expedited COVID surge can be prevented during the Holi festival. Without the permission of the local administration, no processions or functions shall be allowed in the state. In addition to this, the state authorities have also mandated that senior citizens and children below the age of 10 will not be allowed in social and community gatherings. Further, the state administration has cancelled the leaves of all police personnel to make sure that a strict and vigilant check is maintained during the upcoming festivities.