As Covid cases dip, some states are re-opening schools, here's what you need to know

With a steady dip in the number of Covid-19 cases, many states have decided to reopen the schools and other educational institutions. States like Haryana, Telangana, Gujarat among others have allowed physical classes in the schools following strict Covid-19 protocols.

Some other states are mulling about the necessity of the step citing the possible threat of the third wave of Covid-19. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has said, internationally, there’s a trend of the resurgence of Covid-19 through a third wave, so until vaccination is not completed for everyone, we cannot risk the lives of children.

Here's a look at what some states are doing:

Punjab

The Punjab government ordered reopening of schools for Classes 10 to 12 from July 26 as it further relaxed Covid curbs. Only those teachers and staff will be allowed to be physically present who are fully vaccinated. The presence of students at schools shall be purely at the consent of parents and the option of virtual classes shall be continued.

Madhya Pradesh

Schools for classes 11 and 12 in Madhya Pradesh will reopen with 50 per cent capacity beginning July 26 given a significant fall in the daily Covid-19 cases. The classes will be held on alternate days for each batch of students.

Chhattisgarh

The Chhattisgarh government decided to reopen educational institutes from August 2. Classes for the 10th and 12th grades will begin on August 2 while colleges will reopen in a stage-wise manner. Schools will open only in those areas which have zero active cases, and approval of parents will be a must.

Rajasthan

The Rajasthan government has decided to reopen all schools and other educational institutions in the state from August 2. School authorities have been told to follow strict Covid guidelines for students in Class 10 and 12. Younger pupils, students of Class 5 and 8 would be allowed to visit schools to clear doubts.

West Bengal

The West Bengal government has not planned to open schools at any level in the near future as there is the threat of a third wave of the Covid-19 pandemic. Whenever they reopen, students of higher classes will be the first to start offline classes and not those at the primary level.