Haryana schools to shut for summer from May 25

Chandigarh: Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini on Wednesday announced summer vacation in govt schools from May 25 to June 30 and approved a series of education reforms, including making shramdaan (voluntary labour) a compulsory part of the school curriculum.Chairing a review meeting on school infrastructure, Saini also approved restrictions on the use of mobile phones by teachers during teaching hours. Teachers will not be allowed to carry phones into classrooms and the devices will remain deposited in the principal's office.The chief minister also launched the Chief Minister Excellence and Early English Schools initiative under the 2026-27 budget. In the first phase, 250 schools will be developed on the lines of model and PM Shri schools with smart classrooms, laboratories and bilingual instruction in Hindi and English.Saini directed officials to prioritise construction of buildings in unsafe schools and ensure availability of toilets, drinking water, boundary walls and maintenance facilities.He warned of strict action against officials submitting false reports on smart classrooms and IT infrastructure and directed authorities to address teacher shortages on priority.The govt also increased maintenance assistance for primary school students from Rs 36 to Rs 100.