New Delhi: With air pollution in the national capital spiralling into the ‘Severe Plus’ category, the Delhi Government’s Directorate of Education (DoE) has directed all schools to conduct classes in hybrid mode for students up to Class IX and Class XI, following the enforcement of Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-IV).
In a circular dated December 13, 2025, the Directorate of Education said the decision was taken in compliance with an order issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), after the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi crossed 450. The CAQM order mandates immediate implementation of Stage-IV actions to prevent further deterioration of air quality across Delhi–NCR.
According to the circular, all government, government-aided and private recognised schools under the Directorate of Education have been instructed to shift to hybrid learning, allowing students to attend classes online as well as offline, thereby reducing outdoor exposure amid hazardous pollution levels.
The CAQM, in its order, stated that all measures under GRAP Stage-IV will be enforced with immediate effect, in addition to the actions already in place under Stages I, II and III. The move is aimed at safeguarding public health, particularly that of children, who are among the most vulnerable to air pollution.
The DoE has asked Heads of Schools, District Deputy Directors of Education, and civic education bodies including MCD, NDMC and the Delhi Cantonment Board to ensure strict compliance with the directions. The circular has also been forwarded to the offices of the Chief Minister and the Ministry of Education.
The decision comes amid rising health concerns, as doctors warn that prolonged exposure to AQI levels above 450 can lead to severe respiratory distress, especially among children, the elderly and those with pre-existing lung conditions.
Authorities said the hybrid learning arrangement will remain in force until further orders, depending on the improvement in air quality.
