Delhi Schools Resume Normal Classes for 6 to 9 and 11 After GRAP 4 Lifted

Delhi schools have resumed normal offline classes for students of Classes 6 to 9 and Class 11 following the lifting of GRAP Stage 4 restrictions. The decision comes as air quality levels in the national capital showed sustained improvement, allowing authorities to relax stringent pollution-control measures that were earlier imposed to safeguard public health.

Delhi Schools Resume Normal Classes for Classes 6 to 9 and 11 After GRAP 4 Lifted

While middle and senior secondary students have returned to classrooms, hybrid learning continues for Nursery to Class 5, ensuring a cautious and age-appropriate transition back to normalcy. Schools across Delhi are following the latest directions issued by the education authorities while prioritising students' health and safety.

What Was GRAP Stage 4?

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is implemented in Delhi-NCR during severe air pollution episodes. Stage 4 is the strictest level, enforced when air quality reaches the "severe" category. During this phase, several emergency measures are introduced, including:

• Suspension of in-person classes for younger students
• Shift to online or hybrid learning modes
• Restrictions on construction activities and vehicular movement

Due to alarming pollution levels earlier, schools were instructed to limit physical attendance, especially for younger children who are more vulnerable to respiratory issues.

Current School Functioning Status

With the withdrawal of GRAP 4, schools have been permitted to resume regular operations for older students. The updated structure is as follows:

Classes 6 to 9 & Class 11:

• Full offline classes have resumed. Attendance is being encouraged, and schools have returned to normal timetables, examinations, and co-curricular activities.

Nursery to Class 5:

• Schools are continuing with a hybrid mode, allowing a mix of online and offline learning. Parents have the flexibility to choose the mode they are comfortable with, depending on health concerns.

This staggered approach aims to balance educational continuity with student well-being.

Health and Safety Measures in Schools

Despite the relaxation of restrictions, schools have been advised to maintain preventive measures, including:

• Adequate ventilation in classrooms
• Reduced outdoor activities during poor air quality days
• Availability of clean drinking water and medical assistance
• Monitoring of students with respiratory conditions

Many schools are also sharing daily air quality updates with parents to help them make informed decisions regarding attendance.

Response from Parents and Educators

The decision has received a mixed but largely positive response. Parents of senior students have welcomed the return to offline classes, citing better academic focus and peer interaction. Teachers have also expressed relief, noting improved engagement and classroom participation among students.

At the same time, parents of younger children have appreciated the continuation of the hybrid option, which allows them to prioritise health without compromising learning.

What Lies Ahead?

Education authorities will continue to monitor air quality levels closely. In case of deterioration, necessary measures may be reintroduced. Schools have been advised to stay prepared for a quick shift between offline and online modes if required.

Conclusion

The resumption of normal classes for Classes 6 to 9 and 11 marks an important step toward restoring regular schooling in Delhi after pollution-related disruptions. With hybrid learning continuing for Nursery to Class 5, the current approach reflects a balanced strategy that prioritises both education and health. Parents, students, and schools are now adapting to this phased return while remaining alert to environmental conditions.