Srinagar, May 13, 2025 – Schools across Srinagar and several non-border districts of Jammu and Kashmir welcomed students back on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, after a week-long closure prompted by intense military hostilities between India and Pakistan along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB). The reopening signals a cautious return to normalcy in the region following a ceasefire agreement that halted cross-border skirmishes.
The closure of educational institutions began on May 7, 2025, as a safety measure amid escalating tensions sparked by India’s Operation Sindoor, a targeted strike against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation was launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people. Pakistan retaliated with drone strikes, missile attacks, and heavy shelling in border areas like Poonch, Rajouri, and Kathua, creating a volatile situation described by local authorities as “war-like.”
A breakthrough came on May 10, 2025, when India and Pakistan agreed to cease all military actions, with the ceasefire holding steady since Saturday evening. The Indian Army reported no violations along the LoC or IB, and residents in border villages experienced their first peaceful night in days on May 11. This de-escalation paved the way for the Jammu and Kashmir administration to lift restrictions in non-border districts, allowing schools, colleges, and universities in Srinagar, Katra, Reasi, Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban to resume operations.
However, educational institutions in border districts, including Jammu, Kathua, Samba, Poonch, Rajouri, Udhampur, Kupwara, Baramulla, and Bandipora’s Gurez sub-division, remain closed due to ongoing security concerns. Jammu and Kashmir Education Minister Sakina Itoo confirmed the partial reopening, stating on X, “Schools and colleges in non-border areas will resume classes from May 13, ensuring the safety of students and staff.” Chief Minister Omar Abdullah urged authorities to strengthen preparedness to prevent future disruptions to education.
Parents and students expressed relief at the reopening but voiced concerns about the recurring impact of border tensions on education. “It’s good to see schools open again, but we need lasting peace for our children’s future,” said Ayesha Mir, a parent in Srinagar. The administration has assured that enhanced security measures are in place to maintain stability in the region.
As Jammu and Kashmir takes steps toward recovery, the focus remains on sustaining the ceasefire and ensuring the safety of residents, particularly in vulnerable border areas.
