Odisha School Holiday: The District Education Office, Malkangiri, has declared a three-day holiday for all schools and anganwadi centres in the district starting tomorrow, September 23, and continuing through September 25. The order, issued by the Collector and District Magistrate, cites the India Meteorological Department's forecast of heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning across the district during this period.
Safety of Children the Primary Concern
In the official order (No. 5815/2026, dated 22/09/2026), the administration noted that several parts of the district have already witnessed rainfall, creating conditions that could be difficult for young children to navigate safely. To prevent any untoward incident, the Collector directed the closure of all Government (S&ME and ST & SC Development Department), Aided, and Private schools, along with Anganwadi Centres, across Malkangiri.
NRTS Exam to Continue as Scheduled
Despite the holiday declaration, the order clarified that the pre-scheduled NRTS Examination on 22.09.2026 would be held as usual, unaffected by the closure directive that applies to subsequent days.
Staff Directed to Remain Present
While students have been granted leave, the order makes clear that Headmasters, Headmistresses, teachers, anganwadi workers, and other institutional staff must continue reporting to their respective institutions as usual during the holiday period, ensuring administrative and monitoring functions remain uninterrupted.
Order Circulated to Multiple Authorities
The office order has been formally communicated through a series of memos to key departments and officials, including the District Welfare Officer, District Social Welfare Officer, all Block Education Officers, Welfare Extension Officers, and Head Masters of all school categories for necessary action. Copies were also submitted to the Revenue Divisional Commissioner (Southern Division), Berhampur, the Additional Secretary to the Board of Revenue, Odisha, Cuttack, and senior officials in the Revenue & Disaster Management and School & Mass Education departments for information.
The move reflects the administration's precautionary approach as monsoon conditions intensify, prioritizing child safety while keeping essential educational infrastructure staffed and operational.