Hyderabad.06.01.2026: The School Education Department has announced the extension of Sankranti holidays for all schools across the State. As per the latest decision, schools will now remain closed until January 16, and classes will resume on January 17.
Earlier, the department had declared a five-day holiday for Sankranti from January 11 to January 15. Schools were expected to reopen on January 16. However, the plan was changed after the General Administration Department (GAD) declared January 16 as an optional holiday on account of the Kanuma festival, which is celebrated widely in Telangana and other parts of South India.
Since January 16 comes immediately after the Sankranti and Kanuma celebrations, the government felt it would be better to extend the holidays by one more day. This decision was taken to ensure convenience for students, parents, and teachers, many of whom travel to their native places during the festival season.
In an official statement, Dr. E. Naveen Nicolas, Director of School Education, said that the Pongal holidays have now been extended up to January 16. He also clarified that all schools under every management, including government, aided, private, and residential schools, must reopen on January 17 without fail.
The decision has brought relief to students and parents, especially those who had planned travel during the festival period. Many families had requested an extension, as returning immediately after Kanuma would have been difficult due to heavy travel rush and limited transport availability.
Teachers and school managements have also welcomed the move, stating that the extension will help everyone return safely and be fully prepared when schools reopen. Education officials have instructed school authorities to adjust their academic schedules accordingly to make up for the extended holidays.
Sankranti is one of the most important festivals in the State and is usually celebrated over several days, including Bhogi, Sankranti, and Kanuma. During this time, families come together, and many people visit their hometowns, especially in rural areas.
The School Education Department has advised parents and students to take note of the revised reopening date and ensure attendance from January 17. Further instructions, if any, will be communicated through official channels.
This extension reflects the government’s effort to balance academic schedules with cultural traditions and public convenience during major festivals.
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