In response to worsening air quality and the ongoing health risks posed by pollution, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has ordered that all schools in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) conduct classes in a “hybrid” mode for the time being. The directive applies to students up to 12th grade, with a focus on balancing online and offline learning.
The decision comes after the Supreme Court of India instructed the CAQM to consider resuming physical classes, emphasizing that many students lacked the necessary infrastructure for online learning and were also missing out on mid-day meals. The court, however, upheld the anti-pollution restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) and indicated that no relaxation would be permitted until a consistent decrease in air quality index (AQI) levels was observed.
Hybrid Classes Amid Air Pollution Concerns
While hybrid learning—where some students attend classes physically and others participate online—may work for higher-grade students, the panel acknowledged that primary schools in Delhi and NCR lack the necessary facilities to conduct online-only classes. As a result, the focus remains on finding a balance to ensure students’ education continues without compromising their health.
In addition, the air quality in Delhi-NCR has remained a significant concern, especially with the arrival of winter and its associated pollution levels. The Delhi government and schools have been taking precautions, including promoting the use of face masks and minimizing outdoor activities to mitigate the risks linked to poor air quality.
Schools Prepare for Possible Physical Classes
As the hybrid model prepares to take effect, schools are making proactive arrangements. They are ensuring that infrastructure is in place for seamless online access for students who may need to stay at home due to health concerns. Schools have also been educating parents and students on measures to reduce the impact of pollution, such as wearing masks during outdoor activities and limiting exposure to high pollution levels during peak hours.
This hybrid system is expected to remain in place until the air quality improves, with the CAQM continuing to monitor the situation and providing further updates as needed.
The move has been met with mixed reactions, with some supporting the efforts to safeguard students’ health, while others raise concerns about the continued disruption to in-person learning. However, given the seriousness of the air quality issue, the priority remains on minimizing the health risks to students while maintaining educational continuity.
Sources By Agencies
