Odisha alters school hours due to rising temperatures

The Odisha government has changed school timings for students in Classes I to XII due to increasing temperatures. The new schedule will have schools operating from 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM. Odisha Minister Nityananda Gond announced the changes, stating that the government wants to ensure students face no difficulties from the heat. Schools will provide drinking water and oral rehydration solutions (ORS) to help students stay hydrated during the hot months. The decision comes as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heatwave alerts for several areas in the state. The Ministry of Ayush is also launching a nationwide awareness campaign to help the public understand how to stay safe in extreme heat. This campaign includes educational sessions and information materials. The aim is to teach people about prevention measures against heatwaves and promote traditional wellness practices supported by scientific evidence.