Himachal Pradesh School Holidays: All public and private educational institutions remain closed today, July 21, 2026, in several high-risk districts of Himachal Pradesh following a red alert issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The precautionary measure has been taken due to forecasts of extremely intense monsoon rains, flash floods and landslides that could affect public safety.The district administrations of Kangra, Mandi, Chamba and Sirmaur have ordered closure of schools and other educational institutions for the day. The restrictions also apply to scheduled exams, which have been postponed in the affected districts. The authorities have indicated that the new dates for the exams will be announced separately.Affected educational institutionsIn Kangra, all schools, colleges, universities, Anganwadi centers and technical training institutes have been ordered to remain closed. Sirmaur has also suspended academic activities, and the district administration has extended the closure order till July 22, 2026.In Mandi and Chamba, all primary, secondary and higher education institutions, including public and private establishments, have been ordered to suspend classes for the day as a precaution against adverse weather conditions.Leaves of absence have been granted to teaching and non-teaching staff. However, institutional heads and district disaster management authorities may require essential personnel to report for emergency duties if necessary.District status of educational institutions
Local authorities empowered to make decisionsFor districts where no general closure has been announced, the state government has authorized deputy commissioners to monitor local weather conditions and make decisions about suspending classes if rain, flash floods or road conditions pose a safety risk. The district administrations have been advised to review the situation continuously and issue local orders whenever necessary.