In response to the rising temperatures and to ensure students’ safety during the hot summer months, the Odisha government has revised school timings for Classes I to XII. Starting immediately, schools will function from 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM. The decision comes after increasing concerns over the adverse effects of heat on students. To further mitigate the heat’s impact, provisions for drinking water and ORS will be provided in schools to help students stay hydrated and safe.
Odisha Minister Nityananda Gond shared the announcement, saying, “Due to the increasing temperature, our Chief Minister has instructed that schools will function from 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM. We will ensure that students do not face any difficulty due to the rising temperature. Water and ORS will be provided to the students in the school.”
This change aims to help students avoid exposure to extreme heat, and the government hopes it will provide a safer and more comfortable environment for learning during the summer months.
Meanwhile, in response to heatwave advisories issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the Ministry of Ayush has launched a nationwide awareness campaign. The initiative aims to educate the public on heatwave prevention measures and promote traditional wellness practices supported by scientific research. The campaign includes awareness sessions, the distribution of informational materials, and outreach through the ministry’s network of institutions.
The Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA) in Jamnagar has taken steps to protect the local population. On March 20, ITRA organized an awareness campaign aimed at educating residents, especially those visiting its Outpatient Department (OPD), about the risks associated with extreme heat. Bilingual educational pamphlets with practical tips for preventing heat-related illnesses were distributed in the area. The materials emphasize the importance of staying hydrated, avoiding direct sunlight, and recognizing the early signs of heat stress.