KKN Gurugram Desk | In an effort to optimize the school schedule and manage the hot weather conditions, the Bihar Government has announced a new timetable for the state’s government schools. This new timetable, which will be effective from April 7, 2025, to June 1, 2025, mandates that all government schools will function from 6:30 AM to 12:30 PM. The decision has been implemented by the Bihar Education Department for both primary and secondary schools, aiming to enhance the overall academic environment and improve student performance.

This change will affect thousands of students across Bihar, as it is a significant shift from the usual school timings that typically begin later in the morning. The schools, including both urban and rural areas, will now start at 6:30 AM to ensure that students avoid the extreme midday heat, as temperatures can soar in the summer months. With this change, the schools will finish earlier, giving children more time to rest and stay away from the intense afternoon sun.

Key Highlights of the New Timetable for Bihar Schools

The Bihar Government has rolled out a model timetable for all primary and secondary schools under the jurisdiction of the Department of Secondary Education. This timetable is specifically designed to be implemented for the summer months—starting from April 7, 2025, until June 1, 2025. Below is a detailed breakdown of the school day as per the new schedule:

• School Timings: 6:30 AM – 12:30 PM

• Morning Assembly (Prayer): 6:30 AM – 7:00 AM

• First Period: 7:00 AM – 7:40 AM

• Second Period: 7:40 AM – 8:20 AM

• Third Period: 8:20 AM – 9:00 AM

• Mid-day Break (MDA): 9:00 AM – 9:40 AM

  • This time allows students to have breakfast and rest before continuing with their classes.

• Fourth Period: 9:40 AM – 10:20 AM

• Fifth Period: 10:20 AM – 11:00 AM

• Sixth Period: 11:00 AM – 11:40 AM

• Last Period: 11:40 AM – 12:20 PM

• Post-Class Review and Planning: 12:20 PM – 12:30 PM (This 10-minute window will be used by school heads to review the day’s lessons, plan the next day’s schedule, and evaluate the students’ homework)

After the 12:30 PM bell rings, students will be dismissed for the day.

Why This Timetable Change?

The decision to change the school timings comes as a response to the increasing temperatures and the rising concern about the health of students during peak summer months. April to June are the hottest months in India, and in states like Bihar, where summers are notoriously scorching, starting school early in the morning ensures that students can complete their academic tasks before the sun’s intensity becomes unbearable.

The change in the school timetable will also allow students to maximize productivity during cooler hours. Studies suggest that early morning hours are more conducive to better learning, and this new schedule is expected to enhance student concentration and participation.

Additionally, this new schedule aims to reduce the potential adverse effects of the heat, including heat exhaustion and dehydration, which can affect students’ health and well-being. By finishing school earlier, students can avoid exposure to the sun’s peak hours, which range from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

The Impact on Students and Teachers

This new timetable also affects teachers, who will have to adjust their schedules to cater to the earlier start times. However, it is expected that the shift will be beneficial for both teachers and students. Teachers can utilize the first few hours of the day, when students are fresh, to conduct more interactive and focused lessons.

For students, particularly those from rural areas, this change can significantly impact their daily routines. Students will have an earlier start but will also finish their school day earlier, allowing them to return home in the cooler part of the afternoon. This will provide them with more time to rest, complete their homework, or help their families with chores.

The new timetable also accommodates lunch breaks in the early hours, ensuring that students can have nutritious meals and snacks before they head home. This is an important step in promoting a balanced routine for the students during the hot summer months.

Potential Benefits of Early School Timings

There are several key benefits of implementing an early school timetable, particularly during the summer months:

1. Health Benefits: Starting school earlier and finishing earlier helps students avoid exposure to the extreme heat of midday. This can reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and dehydration.

2. Better Academic Performance: Early mornings are often the best time for students to absorb information and engage in studies. The cooler temperature and fresher minds are conducive to better learning and concentration.

3. Reduced Commute Time: Many students rely on public transportation or walk to school. Starting early allows them to travel during cooler parts of the day, which can make their commute safer and more comfortable.

4. Improved Routine for Parents: With schools finishing earlier in the day, parents can better manage their daily schedules. Children will return home earlier, giving families more time to plan activities after school.

5. Enhanced Student Engagement: Early school hours are shown to improve students’ energy levels, which in turn encourages active participation and involvement in school activities.

Challenges and Concerns

While the new timetable brings several benefits, there are also challenges that may arise:

1. Adjustment Period for Teachers and Students: Shifting to an earlier schedule will require adjustment for both teachers and students. Some students, especially those who are not accustomed to waking up early, may initially face difficulties.

2. Heat Management: Although the school day will end earlier, the heat still poses a concern for students who commute to school. Schools and local authorities will need to ensure that students are adequately prepared with water and other resources to stay cool during travel.

3. School Infrastructure: Schools in rural areas may not have the necessary infrastructure to maintain cooler environments during the early hours. Schools may need to invest in better ventilation and cooling systems to ensure a comfortable learning environment.

The new timetable for Bihar government schools is a proactive step taken by the Bihar Education Department to address the rising temperatures and the health concerns associated with summer months. By adjusting school hours, the government aims to create a healthier and more productive academic environment for both students and teachers.

Although the new timings may take some time to get used to, the overall benefits, including enhanced productivity, improved health, and better quality of life for students, make this decision a step in the right direction. As Bihar continues to deal with rising temperatures, it is crucial to consider such measures to protect the well-being of young learners while ensuring that they continue to receive quality education during challenging weather conditions.