On Tuesday, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced the adjustment of operating hours for government schools. Under the new schedule, schools will function from 10 am to 4 pm, totaling six hours. This decision stems from Kumar’s commitment to the assembly to shorten the current eight-hour school day, previously spanning from 9 am to 5 pm in government-run institutions, by two hours.

Emphasizing the importance of efficient use of school hours for academic pursuits, Kumar stated, “The designated school hours for academic activities should strictly adhere to the time frame of 10 am to 4 pm, and not extend beyond 9 am to 5 pm.” He underscored the need for this change, labeling the existing schedule as inappropriate.

Kumar promptly pledged action, saying, “I will promptly convene with the appropriate departmental authority to implement this adjustment. It is regrettable that such concerns were not raised earlier by the opposition members. Moving forward, the revised timing shall be from 10 am to 4 pm.”

The education department had previously issued the revised schedule for schools in November, which became effective on December 1st.

Additionally, alongside specifying class timings, the guidelines outline disciplinary measures for teachers who do not comply with the new timetable.