Maharashtra Lockdown News: Schools, Colleges and Coaching Centres Closed until 15th February, Know New Guidelines Here

Maharashtra Lockdown News: With COVID-19 cases rising exponentially in the state, the Maharashtra State Government has announced new set of curbs and restrictions to control the spread of the 3^rd wave of the pandemic. As per the new COVID-19 guidelines, all educational institutions including schools, colleges and coaching centres across the state have been ordered to remain closed until 15^th February 2022. The announcement has been made as a part of new lockdown-like COVID curbs to curb the rapid spread.

New COVID-19 Guidelines Announced by CMO Uddhav Thackeray

As the state battles with rapidly rising Omicron surge as part of the COVID-19 pandemic, Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray held a high-level review meeting and issued new lockdown-like restrictions and preventive measures. To avoid any confusion among the people, the new COVID-19 guidelines and preventive measures were announced from CMO Maharashtra Uddhav Thackeray’s official twitter account. All stakeholders, including students, parents and school administrators are advised to go through these guidelines and prepare for the next month accordingly.

COVID-19 Guidelines for Schools, Colleges, Coaching Centres

Earlier, School Education Minsiter Varsha Gaikwad had announced that the decision about school closures will be left to District Magistrates who can decide for the same depending on the COVID-19 spread in their jurisdiction. On the other hand, Higher Education Minister Uday Samant had ordered closure of all colleges, universities and higher education institutions earlier in the week.

Among the various measures announced by the Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday, there are several important points that related to educational institutions. The following educational activities are exempted from the lockdown restrictions announced by the CM.

• Educational Institutions involved in preparation activities for various Educational Boards for 10th and 12th Standard Students are exempted from the COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions
• School-level administrative activities to be undertaken by teachers, except for classroom teaching, is also exempted
• Activities specially directed by or permitted by School Education Department, Department of Skill and Entrepreneurship Development, A Department of Technical and Higher Education, Department of Medical Education, Department of Women and Child Development or any statutory authority.
• Exceptions if required by these departments and statutory authorities due to any exigency will have to get approved by SDMA.

Also Read: Maharashtra Colleges, Universities Closed until 15th February