Telangana Schools to Start Half-Day Classes From March 15

As summer temperatures begin climbing across Telangana , the state’s School Education Department has decided to shorten school hours for the remainder of the academic year to protect students from extreme afternoon heat. The government has ordered the implementation of half-day classes across all schools from March 15 to April 23, 2026 , the final working day of the 2025–26 academic session .

The revised schedule applies to government, aided, and private institutions throughout the state, covering primary, upper primary, and high schools . Under the new arrangement, classes will be held only in the morning session between 8:00 AM and 12:30 PM . After the academic session ends, students enrolled in government and local-body schools will continue to receive the Mid-Day Meal before returning home.

Officials said the decision was taken as a precautionary step amid forecasts of rising temperatures across the region during late March and April , when daytime heat in Telangana typically intensifies. The move aims to minimize students’ exposure to harsh afternoon conditions , which can lead to dehydration and other heat-related health problems, particularly among younger children.

Despite the shortened schedule, authorities clarified that Class 10 students preparing for the SSC Public Examinations will continue attending special revision classes to help them prepare for the upcoming board exams. These sessions are expected to ensure that students do not lose valuable preparation time during the final phase before the examinations.

The department has also issued specific instructions for schools designated as SSC examination centres . On days when board exams are conducted, these institutions will operate from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM to facilitate the smooth conduct of the examinations. On other days, they will follow the regular half-day timetable implemented across the state.

Education officials emphasized that the revised schedule prioritizes student health, safety, and comfort during the peak summer period. Schools have been advised to ensure adequate drinking water , discourage outdoor activities during peak heat hours , and maintain conditions that help students cope with rising temperatures.

The half-day system will remain in place until the academic year concludes on April 23 , after which summer holidays are expected to begin from April 24 , with schools likely to reopen for the next academic session in mid-June .