In August 2024, students across India have experienced an unusual number of holidays. From festival breaks to school closures due to heavy rains, it seems like a month of festivities for students. The latest announcement adds yet another day off—on Wednesday, August 20 ,21st, 2024, schools and colleges will be closed.
Unexpected Holidays in August 2024
August has already seen a streak of holidays, including a consecutive five-day break. Now, the upcoming closure on August 20 and August 21st, 2024, comes as another surprise. This day off is linked to a nationwide protest, which could impact educational institutions across the country.
Due to Heavy Rain in Telangana, It has been declared holiday on 20 August 2024.
The Reason Behind the August 21st Closure
The closure on August 21st is a result of the Supreme Court’s recent decision regarding the sub-categorization within SC/ST reservations. While some have welcomed this ruling, others strongly oppose it, leading to widespread discontent among various social groups. The SC/ST Sub-Categorization Opposing Committee has called for a Bharat Bandh (nationwide shutdown) on this day to protest the ruling, claiming that it violates their rights.
Nationwide Protest and Its Impact
Various organizations, including the SC/ST communities, employees, students, and women’s groups, are expected to participate in the protest. The Bhim Sena and the Tribal Army, among others, have also extended their support to this bandh. The protest is likely to affect schools and colleges, leading to the closure of educational institutions across the country.
August 26th, 2024: Another Holiday on the Horizon
Following the closure on August 21st, students can look forward to another holiday on August 26th, 2024, which is the occasion of Sri Krishna Janmashtami. This additional day off adds to the growing list of holidays in August, making it an eventful month for students.
List of Holidays in August 2024
Here’s a rundown of the upcoming holidays for schools and colleges in August 2024:
- August 19th, 2024 (Monday): Raksha Bandhan
- August 26th, 2024 (Monday): Sri Krishna Janmashtami
In total, students will enjoy approximately ten holidays in August 2024, including those due to festivals and the bandh.
Key Holidays for the 2024-25 Academic Year
Looking ahead, here are some important holidays for the 2024-25 academic year:
- September 7th, 2024 (Saturday): Vinayaka Chavithi
- September 16th, 2024 (Monday): Eid Milad-un-Nabi
- October 2nd, 2024 (Wednesday): Gandhi Jayanti
- October 11th, 2024 (Friday): Durga Ashtami
- October 31st, 2024 (Thursday): Diwali
- December 25th, 2024 (Wednesday): Christmas
Upcoming Festival Breaks
- Dussehra Break: October 4th to October 13th, 2024 (October 11th to 13th for Christian minority institutions)
- Diwali Holiday: October 31st, 2024
- Christmas Holiday: December 25th, 2024 (December 20th to 29th for Christian minority institutions)
- Sankranti Break: January 10th to January 19th, 2025
Conclusion
August 2024 is shaping up to be a month filled with holidays for students across India. The closures due to protests and the series of festive breaks provide students with ample time off. However, the impact of these frequent holidays on the academic schedule remains to be seen. Students and parents should stay informed about these closures and plan accordingly.
