In a significant development, authorities have revoked the stringent Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi. This decision comes as the air quality in the national capital showed marked improvement, moving from the 'severe' to the 'poor' category.
AQI Shows Significant Improvement
The official order noted a continuous improvement in pollution levels. Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 271 on December 24, 2025, a substantial recovery from the severe level of 412 observed just a day earlier. The shift is attributed to favorable meteorological conditions, including higher wind speeds that helped disperse pollutants.
Curbs Under GRAP 1, 2, and 3 Remain Active
While the most severe restrictions under GRAP-4 have been lifted, the Commission for Air Quality Management's sub-committee has decided to keep measures under Stages 1, 2, and 3 in force. This precautionary step aims to prevent any potential deterioration in air quality in the coming days.
The order cited forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), which indicate that wind speeds are likely to slow down. This could lead to a possible increase in the AQI, necessitating the continuation of other anti-pollution curbs.
Impact on Schools and Educational Institutions
The revocation of GRAP-4 has direct implications for schools across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). With the lifting of the most severe stage, state government schools may now reconsider their mode of instruction.
During the implementation of GRAP-4, physical classes were discontinued for students from nursery to Class 5. For students in Classes 6 to 9 and Class 11, schools were operating in a hybrid mode, allowing attendance both online and in-person.
As of now, no official order has been issued by the Directorate of Education (DoE) in Delhi or by education authorities in Noida regarding a change in the current system. The decision to continue or discontinue online classes now rests with the individual state governments in the NCR.
What GRAP-III Measures Mean for Schools
With GRAP-III still in effect, the existing guidelines for schools remain relevant. Under these measures, the DoE can direct all schools—including government, government-aided, and recognized private schools under various civic bodies—to conduct classes for children up to Class V in hybrid mode.
In simpler terms, GRAP-III mandates a hybrid mode of schooling in Delhi and key NCR cities. An official notification clarifying the exact status of schools is still awaited from the respective governments.
The situation remains fluid, and authorities are closely monitoring the AQI forecasts. Residents are advised to stay updated through official channels for any further changes to the anti-pollution measures and school schedules.
