New Delhi | November 12, 2025
Delhi Schools Shift to Hybrid Mode for Classes up to V Amid Severe Pollution and GRAP-III Curbs
The Government of Delhi has directed that schools conduct hybrid (online and limited offline) classes for students up to Class V in response to escalating air pollution levels and the implementation of GRAP-III (Graded Response Action Plan, Stage III) restrictions under the city’s air-quality management framework.
According to officials, the decision follows a sharp spike in the Air Quality Index (AQI), which has remained in the “Severe” category for several consecutive days. The hybrid model aims to reduce children’s outdoor exposure while ensuring that learning continuity is maintained.
Schools have been asked to limit in-person activities and shift non-essential classes and assemblies to virtual platforms. For Classes VI and above, schools may continue offline sessions with restricted outdoor activities, subject to real-time air-quality monitoring and health advisories.
The Directorate of Education (DoE) has also instructed schools to ensure indoor air purification measures, avoid open-air events, and issue awareness messages to parents regarding protective practices such as mask usage and minimizing travel during peak pollution hours.
This move aligns with a series of emergency steps under GRAP-III, which also include curbs on construction, vehicular movement, and industrial emissions. Public health experts have reiterated that young children are among the most vulnerable to pollution-induced respiratory and cognitive effects, making precautionary schooling measures essential.
Source: Delhi Directorate of Education | Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)
