Jammu and Kashmir extends school closures to July 26 because of heavy rains

The Jammu and Kashmir government has extended the summer vacation for all government‑run and recognised private schools in the Kashmir Division and the winter zones of the Jammu Division until 26 July 2026. Classes are scheduled to resume on Monday, 27 July 2026. Education Minister Sakina Itoo announced the decision, citing safety concerns amid forecasts from the Indian Meteorological Department of widespread heavy rainfall, flash floods and landslides.

The weather emergency has affected 654 vulnerable villages, putting roughly 7.22 lakh residents at risk. Authorities have moved about 1,505 people to rescue centres, deployed 744 rescue points, SDRF and army boats, satellite phones and helipads, and are monitoring the situation round the clock. Since 19 July, at least 22 people have died in landslides and floods. The extended holiday aims to protect students, teachers and their families while relief operations continue.