Delhi schools to operate in hybrid mode for classes up to 5
The directive follows the Commission for Air Quality Management invoking Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan due to worsening air quality.
The Delhi Directorate of Education has directed all government, government-aided, and unaided recognised private schools to conduct classes up to Class 5 in hybrid mode. According to reports from Rediff, India TV, and Urban Acres, the directive was issued on November 6 in response to deteriorating air quality in the national capital.
The arrangement applies to schools under the Directorate of Education, as well as those run by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), and the Delhi Cantonment Board (DCB). Under this hybrid model, students can attend classes either in person or online, allowing parents and students to choose their preferred mode of education.
The decision complies with an order from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to invoke Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR. Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said on Friday that the CAQM implemented GRAP Stage 3, which includes restrictions on certain diesel and petrol vehicles and construction activities.
The city's air quality index (AQI) was recorded in the 'very poor' category on Saturday. While one source reported an AQI of 364, India TV reported a reading of 392.
School heads have been instructed to immediately inform parents and guardians about the new arrangements. Deputy Directors of Education (DDEs) across various districts and zones have been tasked with visiting schools to ensure the directions are implemented smoothly.