New Delhi: With high vaccination rates picking up momentum, and declining Covid-19 cases across the country, states are easing lockdown and reopening schools and colleges across the country.
Earlier this year, the Ministry of Education established new criteria for the reopening of schools and institutions.
According to the new guidelines, the Centre has given States and UTs the authority to decide whether or not schools must obtain parental agreement for students to participate in physical education lessons. Previously, parental approval was required before sending their children to school.
The amended standards specify that gatherings for functions and festivals shall follow State and UT Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and that schools may hold school events, cultural events, or activities as a result. The updated rules also emphasised a smooth transition from online to classroom learning, as well as the implementation of remedial programmes for those who require further assistance.
Moreover, sanitising school vehicles at least twice a day is required to ensure and monitor safe commuting for pupils. Physical spacing standards should be adhered to, with a physical distance of six feet maintained. In staff rooms, office areas, classrooms, and other common places, social distance must be maintained.
In the event of a suspected case of Covid-19, protocols should be followed and a risk assessment conducted by the relevant public health authority. As a result, additional actions will be taken. During the distribution of the mid-day meal scheme (PM-POSHAN), social distance must be maintained.
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