The governments of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan have ordered the closure of schools across the three states for at least two days, as the ongoing India-Pakistan conflict escalated late on Thursday, May 8.
Jammu and Kashmir Education Minister Sakina Itoo stated that the directive was issued due to security concerns. This decision follows reports from the Defence Ministry indicating that India successfully foiled Pakistan’s attempted strikes on key military installations in Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur using drones and missiles on Thursday night.
Punjab is on high alert, with schools closed in border districts and leave cancelled for police personnel. Blackouts have been enforced in Pathankot, Mohali, Jalandhar, Amritsar, and Hoshiarpur since Thursday evening. Schools in six border districts—Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Amritsar, Gurdaspur, and Tarn Taran—will remain closed until further notice.
Punjab govt orders closure of schools, colleges, universities for next 3 days: Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains. pic.twitter.com/xWLbZJH6GU
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 8, 2025
The Rajasthan government has cancelled leave for administrative and police personnel posted near the International Border and ordered the closure of schools in five border districts. A high alert has been issued, prompting blackouts in these areas with critical infrastructure:
- Barmer & Jaisalmer: Blackout from 9 pm to 4 am
- Jodhpur: Blackout from 12:30 am to 4 am
Schools in Sri Ganganagar, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, and Barmer will remain closed as a precautionary measure.
Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following Indian forces’ precision strikes on Wednesday, targeting terror launchpads in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoJK). These strikes were in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians.
FAQs on School Closures in J&K, Punjab & Rajasthan
Why have schools been closed in J&K, Punjab, and Rajasthan?
Schools have been closed due to escalating tensions and security concerns arising from the ongoing India-Pakistan conflict.
For how long will the schools remain closed?
Initially, schools are closed for at least two days. In some border districts of Punjab, schools will remain closed until further notice.
What was the reason given by the J&K Education Minister?
J&K Education Minister Sakina Itoo stated that the directive was issued due to security concerns.
Which areas in Punjab are most affected?
Punjab is on high alert, with schools closed in border districts. Blackouts are enforced in Pathankot, Mohali, Jalandhar, Amritsar, and Hoshiarpur. Schools in six border districts—Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Amritsar, Gurdaspur, and Tarn Taran—will remain closed until further notice.
What measures are being taken in Rajasthan?
The Rajasthan government has cancelled leave for administrative and police personnel posted near the International Border and ordered schools closed in five border districts. Blackouts are also enforced in Barmer, Jaisalmer, and Jodhpur.
Which border districts in Rajasthan will have schools closed?
Schools in Sri Ganganagar, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, and Barmer will remain closed as a precaution.
What led to the escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan?
Tensions escalated after Indian forces carried out precision strikes on terror launchpads in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoJK) in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack.
How are these school closures impacting students and parents?
The closures are causing disruption to the education of students and causing concern for parents about the safety of their children.
Are there any travel restrictions in these states?
While the article focuses on school closures and blackouts, it also mentions that Punjab is on high alert, which may imply travel restrictions or heightened security measures. It is advisable to check official sources for detailed information.
Where can residents find the most up-to-date information on the situation?
Residents should monitor official government announcements, news channels, and local authority websites for the latest updates and instructions.