The Delhi government on Monday announced that students from nursery to Class 5 will compulsorily attend classes in online mode, citing dangerously high air pollution levels across the national capital.

The decision removes the earlier option given to parents to choose between physical and online classes for younger children.

In a circular issued today, the Directorate of Education (DoE) said that in view of the prevailing air quality situation, physical classes for students from nursery to Class 5 have been discontinued until further orders.

Order applies to all schools

The directive applies to all government, government-aided and unaided private recognised schools in Delhi.

“All heads of schools are hereby directed to ensure classes in online mode for students of these classes,” the DoE said, adding that classes for higher grades will continue as per earlier instructions already issued by the department.

Air quality remains in ‘severe’ category

Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) remained in the ‘severe’ category on Monday, with an overall reading of 427, according to official data. A day earlier, the AQI had touched 461, the second-highest level recorded in December.

Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed that air quality was ‘severe’ at 27 monitoring stations across the city, while 12 stations recorded ‘very poor’ air quality.

The Wazirpur area reported the worst conditions, with an AQI of 475.

Health concerns behind the move

Health experts have repeatedly warned that prolonged exposure to such high pollution levels can severely impact children, particularly affecting respiratory health, immunity and cognitive development.

Government officials said the move was taken as a precautionary public health measure, especially for younger children who are more vulnerable to air pollution.

Understanding AQI levels

According to the CPCB, an AQI reading of:

  • 0–50 is considered good
  • 51–100 satisfactory
  • 101–200 moderate
  • 201–300 poor
  • 301–400 very poor
  • 401–500 severe

Delhi has remained consistently in the ‘very poor’ to ‘severe’ categories over the past several days.

Parents await clarity on duration

While many parents welcomed the move as necessary for children’s safety, others expressed concern over screen time and academic continuity, especially if the situation prolongs.

The education department said the order will remain in force until further instructions, depending on improvements in air quality.