Maharashtra Orders ST Buses for School Trips; Private Vehicles Face Action

School trips and picnics in Maharashtra will now have to use only state-run ST buses. The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has announced that schools must strictly avoid hiring private vehicles for student excursions, tours, or educational visits. The decision comes after repeated safety concerns and complaints linked to unregulated private operators.

Many private buses are not regularly monitored, and in some cases, drivers may not hold proper licences for carrying children. Some vehicles lack emergency equipment, valid insurance or certified fitness tests. When schools choose cheaper options unknowingly, students end up travelling in vehicles that are not fully safe for them.

By making ST buses mandatory, the government aims to provide safer travel with trained drivers, maintenance checks and compliance with all transport rules. This rule also holds schools accountable, showing that student safety must always be a top priority and not something left to chance.

Why ST Buses Are Now Mandatory

The decision to use ST buses is based on safety, trust and government supervision. Officials have stated that using state-run buses ensures proper emergency support, legal compliance and disciplined driving standards. The MSRTC network covers almost all districts, which makes hiring buses easier for schools from both rural and urban areas.

Key Reasons Behind the Move

Many private operators do not follow safety norms
Some vehicles operate without valid insurance or fitness certificates
Trained and licensed drivers are not guaranteed in private buses
ST buses are inspected regularly and follow government safety rules
Emergency breakdown support is available through MSRTC depots

Action Against Schools Violating the Rule

Authorities have clearly warned that schools violating this order may face strict consequences. If any school still hires a private vehicle for a trip, action may be taken against:

The school management
The private bus operator
The driver in case of legal violations

This decision takes responsibility seriously, and schools are expected to cooperate without excuses.

Will ST Buses Be Available for All Schools?

MSRTC has assured that sufficient buses will be allotted. Schools will need to book in advance, and bus charges will be based on official rates, which are transparent and fixed. This makes the process more reliable and reduces the chances of bargaining or hidden extra fees.

What Schools Need to Do

Contact the nearest MSRTC depot
Fill the required booking form
Provide trip details, number of students and distance
Confirm the booking and keep the receipt

December 2025 School Holidays: Full Winter Break Schedule Across Indian States

As December 2025 approaches, schools across India are preparing to close for their much-awaited winter vacations. For students, this period means a break from classes, homework, and exams, while for parents it is time to plan travel, family gatherings, or simply enjoy a slower routine at home. With Christmas and New Year falling within this window, most states have scheduled holidays accordingly, though the exact dates vary depending on climate and local administration.

I am writing about school winter vacations because every year parents and students search for clear, state-wise holiday information, and it is often scattered or confusing. Knowing the tentative vacation dates in advance helps families plan trips, tuition schedules, and festive celebrations without last-minute stress. It also allows working parents to make arrangements for childcare during the school break.

Why Winter Vacations Matter for Schools and Families

Winter vacations are not just about festivals. In many parts of India, especially northern states, schools shut due to cold weather conditions. In southern and coastal states, the holidays are usually shorter and revolve mainly around Christmas and New Year. These breaks give students time to rest, revise, and mentally recharge before the final academic stretch.

For families, this is also one of the few times in the academic year when travel is possible without worrying about attendance or exams.

School Winter Vacations December 2025: State-Wise Overview

Below is a broad, state-wise overview of expected school winter holidays in December 2025. Final dates may vary slightly depending on state government notifications and individual school boards.

Delhi and NCR

Schools in Delhi and NCR are expected to observe winter vacations from the last week of December, mainly due to cold weather. Holidays may begin around Christmas and extend into early January.

Uttar Pradesh and Haryana

Schools in these states usually announce longer winter breaks because of low temperatures. Vacations are expected to start in the final week of December and continue into the first or second week of January.

Maharashtra

Most schools in Maharashtra generally declare shorter winter holidays. Christmas Day and New Year are holidays, with a brief break of a few days around this period.

Karnataka

Schools typically observe holidays for Christmas and New Year, with winter vacations usually limited to one week or less, depending on the board and district.

Kerala

Kerala schools often align their winter break with Christmas celebrations. Vacations generally start around December 24 or 25 and may last for about a week.

Andhra Pradesh and Telangana

In these states, winter vacations are relatively short. Schools usually close for Christmas and New Year, with holidays lasting a few days rather than an extended break.

Key Dates to Watch in December 2025

Some common holidays that fall during the winter vacation period include:

Christmas Day: December 25, 2025
New Year’s Day: January 1, 2026

Many schools club these holidays with weekends to create a longer break.

Important Note for Parents and Students

It is important to remember that holiday dates can differ based on school boards such as CBSE, ICSE, state boards, and private institutions. Parents should always check circulars issued by their child’s school or the respective state education department for confirmed dates.

I would also suggest keeping an eye on weather-related announcements, especially in northern states, where extreme cold can lead to extensions in winter vacations.