Bhubaneswar, Apr 22 (UNI) In view of the intense heat wave sweeping across Odisha, the state government on Tuesday announced summer vacation for all schools and colleges, both private and government-run, effective from Wednesday, April 23.

A release from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) stated that all educational institutions in the state — from Anganwadi centres and Sishubatikas to Class XII — will remain closed from April 23. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi issued the order after reviewing the situation to safeguard the health of children.

The government has directed that, during this period, dry food will be delivered to Anganwadi children at their homes.

According to the order, all government and private institutions from Anganwadi centres and Sishubatikas to Class XII will be closed. The state government has also declared a holiday for college students — both government and private — starting April 23 until further notice.

Normal life in many parts of Odisha has come to a standstill due to the extreme heat wave, with daytime temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius in several areas.

However, exams that have been previously scheduled will be conducted on their respective dates, and concerned officials have been instructed to ensure proper arrangements are made. The order also states that hostel students may stay in the hostel during the vacation, if they wish.

The review meeting was attended by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, Law and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, School and Mass Education Minister Nityanand Gond, along with senior government officials including Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja and Director General of Police Y.B. Khurania.

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