Schools in Delhi are preparing for the possible resumption of physical classes following a Supreme Court suggestion, balancing health precautions and parental concerns over pollution. While some parents worry about exposing their children to poor air quality, others fear the loss of in-person learning experiences.

To safeguard students, schools are implementing strict measures. These include mandatory mask-wearing, reducing outdoor activities, and moving assemblies indoors. Sudha Acharya, principal of ITL Public School, noted that events like annual and sports days are postponed. Indraprastha School’s Rajesh Hassija emphasized limiting activities that could worsen breathing issues, such as outdoor exercises.

Parents remain divided. Aprajita Gautam, president of the Delhi Parents’ Association, highlighted the dilemma: “Send them to school and risk pollution exposure or keep them home and miss essential activities.” Some parents are boosting immunity with antioxidant-rich foods and urging extra care for children with allergies.

Schools are also adopting practical steps. Vividh Gupta from Bal Bhavan Public School advised full-sleeve uniforms and masks, encouraging school transport use to cut emissions. Water sprinkling and indoor activities like chess and painting are also planned to minimize dust exposure for younger students.

The Supreme Court stressed that many students lack mid-day meals and infrastructure for online classes but maintained stringent anti-pollution restrictions until AQI levels show consistent improvement.