Delhi Schools Shift To Hybrid Mode For Students Till Class V As AQI Hits Severe Levels

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From 11 November 2025, the Directorate of Education, Delhi (DoE) has instructed schools in Delhi under its purview-including government, aided, and recognised private schools under the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), and the Delhi Cantonment Board to conduct classes for students up to Class V in a hybrid mode. This means a combination of in‑school and online learning, wherever online mode is feasible, with immediate effect until further notice.

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This step follows the activation of Stage III (Severe) of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) due to a sharp deterioration in air quality.

What This Means For Parents And Students

If your child is in Class 1-5 in Delhi, expect the school to alternate or mix in‑school and online classes depending on the schedule set by the school. Because the directive includes "wherever online mode is feasible," the online component will be implemented only if the infrastructure (device + internet) and circumstances allow.

Schools will need to inform parents about the details: Which days are in person, which days are online, how attendance will work, and how classwork and homework will be managed. The hybrid arrangement is in effect until further orders, and full in‑person classes will resume only when official communication allows.

Why Up To Class V Only

The current directive specifically covers students "up to Class V" under the most recent measure. Previous circulars under earlier phases of GRAP had extended hybrid mode to higher classes (up to Class IX & XI) during more severe pollution stages.

In simple terms, as of 11 November 2025, hybrid mode is limited to Class V and below. The scope could be broadened if air quality worsens and higher stages of GRAP are invoked.

Points To Check With Your Child's School

• Confirm the hybrid schedule: Which days will your child attend in‑school vs online.
• Check whether your child has the device and connectivity required for online learning.
• Clarify how attendance, assessments, and homework will be handled.
• Ask what safety and health measures are in place on in‑school days (masks, purifiers, restricted outdoor play).
• Stay alert: The directive is "until further orders," so changes may come depending on air quality.

Parent's Checklist For Your Child's Routine

• For online days: Ensure a quiet study space, stable internet, and minimal distractions.
• For in‑school days: Pack a mask (if advised) and guide your child to avoid heavy outdoor activity.
• Help your child adapt to switching modes: Keep a simple routine to reduce disruption.
• Stay in touch with the school administration: For any difficulties with attendance, connectivity, or clarity.

Photo Credit: Freepik

For parents of children in Class 1-5 in Delhi, schooling has shifted to hybrid mode from 11 November 2025 due to a spike in pollution and the invocation of Stage III GRAP. The move balances health protection for younger students while maintaining continuity in education. Stay updated through school communications, help your child adapt to the new rhythm, and be ready for changes if the air‑quality situation evolves.