Bhubaneswar, Dec 16: The Directorate of Secondary Education has released the school holiday calendar for the year 2026. According to the notification, schools will observe a total of 82 holidays in the coming year, excluding Sundays.

Although Netaji Jayanti, Republic Day, Utkal Divas, Independence Day, Ganesh Puja and Gandhi Jayanti are included in the holiday list, these occasions will be celebrated within school premises. As a result, students will be required to attend school on these days.

In view of the summer heat, a summer vacation of 38 days has been scheduled from May 6 to June 17. The duration of the summer break may be extended depending on prevailing weather conditions. Schools will also remain closed for eight days each during the Durga Puja and winter periods. The Durga Puja holidays will be observed from October 17 to October 26, while the winter vacation will run from December 23 to December 31.

In addition, schools may be granted two days of local holidays with prior approval from the District Education Officer.