Operation Sindoor 2025: Where are schools closed amid rising border tensions?
Operation Sindoor 2025:Amid rising security concerns along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB), authorities in multiple Indian states have ordered the closure of schools and educational institutions on May 8, 2025.The decision follows India’s launch of Operation Sindoor, a counter-terrorism strike in response to the deadly Pahalgam terror attack.As tensions escalate between India and Pakistan, several districts in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan have been placed on high alert. Educational institutions across numerous border districts have been shut as a precautionary measure. The closures include schools, colleges, universities, madrasas, and Anganwadi centres.Educational institutions shut across Jammu and KashmirIn Jammu division, the Divisional Commissioner has directed the closure of all government and private schools, colleges, and other institutions in five key border districts. These include Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri, and Poonch. The measure is being enforced for May 8, 2025, amid fears of further hostilities following ongoing shelling across the LoC.Similar restrictions are in effect in the Kashmir division. Authorities have ordered the closure of schools in Baramulla, Kupwara, and Gurez. Additionally, schools around Awantipora and Srinagar Airport are shut due to prevailing security threats. On May 7, 2025, the government had already closed educational institutions across ten districts as part of precautionary steps.Full list of affected districts and closure details
Punjab border districts observe closuresIn Punjab, the Ferozepur Deputy Commissioner issued a 72-hour shutdown for all schools, effective from May 7, 2025. Educational institutions in Pathankot, Amritsar, Gurdaspur, and Fazilka districts are also closed on May 8, 2025. Tarn Taran has extended the school closure from May 8 to May 11, as authorities closely monitor the situation.Rajasthan schools remain shut amid heightened alertRajasthan’s Jodhpur district administration has issued orders to suspend all classes starting May 8, 2025, until further notice. The closure directive encompasses both government and private institutions. In addition, schools up to Class 12, along with Anganwadi centres and madrasas, have been closed in Barmer, Bikaner, and Jaisalmer.
