Barmer/Ferozepur: In a swift response to heightened security concerns triggered by ‘Operation Sindoor’, government and private schools across multiple border districts in Punjab and Rajasthan were ordered shut from May 8, 2025, until further notice. The move comes amid growing tension between India and Pakistan following military engagements and drone interceptions along the western borders.
Authorities in Punjab ordered the closure of all educational institutions in Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Amritsar, Gurdaspur, and Tarn Taran districts. The decision was taken in view of the tense situation following the launch of Operation Sindoor by the Indian Armed Forces, a preemptive military campaign aimed at neutralizing terror infrastructure along the border.
An official order from the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Tarn Taran directed that all schools in the district would remain shut from May 8 to May 11. Similarly, in Ferozepur, schools have been closed for a minimum of 72 hours. Authorities indicated that the duration could be extended depending on how the situation evolves.
To ensure administrative readiness, the Director General of Police (DGP), Punjab, has cancelled all leaves of police personnel effective May 7, except under exceptional circumstances that require special approval.
In neighbouring Rajasthan, the administration in Barmer, Bikaner, Sri Ganganagar, Jaisalmer, and most recently, Jodhpur, have followed suit. District Collector Tina Dabi of Barmer invoked powers under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, citing national security and the safety of school children. Her order covers all educational institutions up to class 12 including CBSE schools, Anganwadis, Madrasas, and private coaching centres.
Examinations scheduled from May 8 have also been postponed until further notice. Similar directives were issued by Jodhpur District Collector Gaurav Agarwal, ordering a complete shutdown of schools and Anganwadis starting May 8.
The Rajasthan government has also cancelled leaves of administrative and police officials deployed in border districts, ensuring full readiness amid a potential emergency.
The school closures come as a precautionary measure amid reports of Pakistani drone activity, shelling incidents, and the interception of missile strikes by Indian air defences, particularly in areas close to the border.
Security has been significantly beefed up in Himachal Pradesh, which has initiated a review of its emergency communication systems. Air raid sirens were sounded in Chandigarh, where citizens have been advised to remain indoors.
Meanwhile, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri addressed the media with visuals linking Pakistani state elements to terror networks, intensifying diplomatic pressure.
In multiple cities, panicked parents rushed to retrieve their children from schools on May 7, as news of the closures spread. Footage from Amritsar showed anxious families returning home amid tight police security.
Despite the prevailing unease, there have been no casualties reported so far from Indian territory. Indian defence sources confirmed that Pakistan’s attempted aerial strikes were effectively repelled.
The situation remains fluid, with local administrations on high alert and emergency services on standby.
