In a significant development for higher education students, the Jammu and Kashmir Higher Education Department (HED) has formally proposed a 49-day winter vacation schedule for degree colleges.
According to Prof Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Director Colleges J&K, the department has moved a proposal to commence winter breaks for colleges in the Kashmir Division and the Winter Zones of Jammu Divisionstarting from December 27, 2025.
While the proposal aligns with the annual academic planner, it is currently awaiting the final nod from the competent authority before the official order is issued.
Proposed Winter Vacation Schedule (2025-26)
The Higher Education Department has outlined a specific timeline to ensure students are off-campus during the harshest part of the winter (Chillai Kalan).
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Start Date: December 27, 2025
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End Date: February 14, 2026
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Total Duration: 49 Days
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Applicable To: All Degree Colleges in Kashmir Division & Winter Zones of Jammu Division.
Official Quote: “As per the academic planner of Higher Education Department, we have proposed to announce the 49 days’ winter vacation… As of now, we haven’t got a nod from the competent authority,” stated Prof Sheikh Ajaz Bashir.
Comparison: School vs. College Winter Breaks
The School Education Department (SED) has already announced its vacation schedule in phases, which began as early as November 26. Here is how the college proposal compares to the school schedule:
| Level | Start Date | End Date | Status |
| Pre-Primary (Balvatika) | Nov 26, 2025 | Feb 28, 2026 | Announced |
| Middle (Up to 8th) | Dec 01, 2025 | Feb 28, 2026 | Announced |
| Secondary (9th-12th) | Dec 11, 2025 | Feb 22, 2026 | Announced |
| Degree Colleges | Dec 27, 2025 | Feb 14, 2026 | Proposed |
Key Instructions for Schools
While colleges await their order, the School Education Department (SED) Secretary, Ram Niwas Sharma, has issued strict instructions alongside the school vacation order.
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Faculty Availability: All teaching faculty in schools must remain available for any academic activity during the vacation period if required.
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Online Guidance: Teachers are expected to stay in touch with students for guidance during the break.
Conclusion
With the proposal now public, college students can expect the official government order to be released shortly, likely within the next week. The proposed December 27 start date allows the administration to conclude ongoing semester work before the campuses close for the 49-day recess.
We will update this page immediately once the final government order is signed and released.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Has the J&K college winter vacation been officially announced?
No. It is currently a proposal by the Higher Education Department. The final order from the government is awaited.
2. When is the college winter break proposed to start?
The Director Colleges has proposed the break to start from December 27, 2025.
3. How long will the winter break be for colleges?
The proposed duration is 49 days, ending on February 14, 2026.
4. Does this apply to Jammu colleges?
It applies only to the Winter Zone areas of the Jammu Division and the entire Kashmir Division. Summer Zone colleges in Jammu usually have a different schedule.
5. Are school winter vacations already active?
Yes. Vacations for Pre-primary and Middle classes have already begun, while High School (9th-12th) vacations commence on December 11.
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