Will Mumbai schools stay open on Republic Day? Maharashtra education department states, ‘January 26 is no longer a holiday due to…’

 

Will Mumbai schools stay open on Republic Day? Maharashtra education department states, ‘January 26 is no longer a holiday due to…’

The Maharashtra government has declared that Republic Day, January 26, will no longer be observed as a school holiday in the state. Instead, students are encouraged to engage in activities that foster a sense of national pride on that day.

The school education department issued a circular on Tuesday instructing all government and private schools to organize day-long Republic Day celebrations featuring various competitions centered on patriotic themes.

The circular stated, "On January 26, we aim to instill a sense of national pride in students by highlighting the nation's history, our rich culture, and the country's future. Therefore, starting January 26, 2025, Republic Day will be celebrated across all government and private schools, irrespective of the medium, through a variety of events."

The directive outlines eight mandatory competitions and events to be held on Republic Day, including a ‘Prabhat Pheri’ (morning march) following the flag-hoisting ceremony, elocution, poetry, dancing, drawing, essay writing, and sports competitions, along with an exhibition. All activities are required to focus on patriotic themes. District education officers and education inspectors have been tasked with ensuring the directive's implementation.

However, the directive has faced significant criticism.

Teacher activist Bhausaheb Chaskar, speaking to Hindustan Times, expressed concerns over the directive, stating, “Students are already overwhelmed with the number of events celebrated in schools. There are so many occasions to observe, and they often clash with the time needed for the curriculum.”

He further questioned the necessity of dedicating the entire day to such celebrations, adding, “Schools have already been observing Republic Day with various events. Is it really necessary to extend it into a full-day affair?”

Meanwhile, ahead of Republic Day 2025, defence personnel participated in the full-dress rehearsal for the 76th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path on Sunday.

The full-dress rehearsals are being conducted in preparation for the Republic Day celebrations scheduled for January 25, 2025.

In the meantime, Delhi Police has intensified security measures, increased patrolling, and deployed additional personnel in markets and high-footfall areas to ensure public safety during the festive season, which includes New Year's Eve and Republic Day.

Speaking to ANI, DCP South Ankit Chauhan stated, “During the festive season, we have enhanced patrolling in markets and other crowded areas. Senior officers patrol every evening with increased manpower, checking individuals and reviewing the security setup in marketplaces to instill a sense of safety among the public.”

DCP South Ankit Chauhan also mentioned that police have intensified tenant and servant verification processes as Republic Day approaches to ensure enhanced security.