As Delhi’s air quality plunged deep into the ‘severe’ category, the government has ordered a major change in how schools operate. Authorities have directed that students up to Class V must now attend classes fully online to protect them from dangerous air pollution. This move aims to keep young children out of harm’s way as smog chokes the city and surrounding areas under strict pollution curbs.
Delhi Schools: Online Classes till Class 5th
Under the latest directive, schools across Delhi are required to shift students in pre-nursery to Class V to fully online classes until further notice. This applies to government schools, government-aided schools, and unaided recognised private schools.
Due to the increased AQI (Air Quality Index) in Delhi, offline classes for students from nursery to class 5 have been suspended. Online classes will be mandatory for these grades until further notice.
Classes for grades 6 and above will continue as per the previously issued… pic.twitter.com/rMRdcP3MXt
— ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2025
For students in Classes VI to IX and Class XI, a hybrid mode has been suggested where possible. This means schools can mix online and physical classes — but parents and guardians can choose online learning depending on feasibility and health considerations.
Delhi Schools: Hybrid Mode for Older Students
The government’s plan does not completely shut down physical schooling for older children. Students from Class VI onwards can attend school physically, where conditions allow. However, schools must also make online classes available so that parents can choose the safer option.
This hybrid approach aims to balance education continuity with health and safety. Some schools have already started sharing online links, study resources and digital schedules with parents to ensure minimal disruption to learning.
Air Quality Worsens in Delhi-NCR
The National Capital Region has been grappling with hazardous air pollution, pushing the Air Quality Index (AQI) well above safe limits. In response, authorities have implemented Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-IV), the most stringent level of pollution control measures. These include bans on construction activities, restrictions on diesel vehicles, and guidelines aimed at reducing outdoor exposure for vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly.
Experts say prolonged exposure to such polluted air can increase the risk of respiratory problems, eye irritation and other serious health issues, particularly for young children whose lungs are still developing.
Why the Move Matters for Young Children?
Children in early school years are especially vulnerable to air pollution. Their lungs and immune systems are still developing, and long-term exposure to toxic air can affect growth and respiratory health. With Delhi’s smog showing no signs of quick improvement, officials said keeping young students indoors is a necessary precaution.
Parents in the region have welcomed the shift, noting that children often complain of coughing, watery eyes and breathing difficulty on smoggy days. Many said they would prefer full online learning until the air quality improves.
Broader Measures as Pollution Worsens
The online schooling order comes as part of a larger push to reduce outdoor activities in Delhi-NCR. Strict GRAP-IV measures include restrictions on diesel trucks, halting construction work and limiting some industrial operations. Authorities are also advising people to stay indoors as much as possible and to wear masks if they must go outside.
What Parents and Students Should Know?
Online classes are mandatory for students up to Class V until further notice. Hybrid learning may continue for older students, with the option for online attendance.
Schools will follow orders under the Graded Response Action Plan Stage IV due to severe air quality. Parents should ensure children attend classes online and avoid outdoor exposure as much as possible.
