SRINAGAR, In a move aimed at ensuring student safety, the Jammu and Kashmir government has announced a complete ban on school and college picnics scheduled for weekends and public holidays.
The decision was communicated by Sakeena Itoo, Minister for Health, Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education, during a high-level review meeting held at the Civil Secretariat.
According to the official directive, all Higher Secondary and High Schools are now required to obtain prior approval from the respective Chief Education Officers (CEOs) before planning any picnic. The CEOs will be responsible for maintaining records and issuing permissions.
Meanwhile, Middle Schools and institutions below that level must secure permission from the concerned Zonal Education Officers (ZEOs), with prior intimation to the CEO. For school excursions that go beyond district boundaries, approval from the Director of School Education is mandatory.
Similarly, colleges planning any recreational trips must follow a defined procedure and seek clearance from the office of the Director Colleges.
This decision comes following a thorough review of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to student outings, amid growing concerns over the safety and well-being of students during such activities.
