Yet another state has joined the list of states/UTs for imposing restrictions to curb the spread of COVID-19. Chhattisgarh has introduced a list of curbs that will be imposed in the capital city of Raipur, amid a surge in coronavirus infections. Along with night curfew and limited seating in public areas, the state government has ordered the closure of schools in the city. Moreover, in accordance with the central government directives, students between the ages of 15-18 may be called for vaccination in their respective schools.
Several major states including Maharastra, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar, and Rajasthan have shut down schools for varying periods to reduce the virus spread. While the mortality rate is the only silver lining, state and central governments are worried about the eventual pressure on the country’s healthcare system. Measures, curfews, and mini lockdowns are being considered to ensure that the disastrous second-wave does not repeat itself.
Against this background, Chhattisgarh has also introduced curbs that are restricted to the capital city. Of course, it may be imposed in other areas, if the cases begin increasing. But as of now, students, parents, and guardians need to take note of the newly-introduced curbs, if they reside in Raipur.
In Raipur, schools, anganwadi centres, swimming pools, and libraries will remain closed for an indefinite period. This period will end only when the situation in the city stabilizes. This curb also implies the resumption of online education. However, students within the age group of 15-18 years may be asked to report to their schools for vaccination. This age group comprises Class 10 and 12 students.
The Chhattisgarh state education board will be conducting the Class 10 board exams between March 30 to 23, 2022. The Class 12 board exams are scheduled from March 02 to 30, 2022. Hence, the state government needs to vaccinate students with at least the first dose before the exams begin. Only then will it be safe to conduct theory-based exams across the state.
On a positive note, experts are predicting that the cases in India will soon peak with 50% fewer deaths compared to the second wave. If this stands true, the state board will be able to conduct their exams rather than resort to alternate assessment criteria. However, these are just a few possibilities. Only the future knows how the third wave of COVID-19 will pan out. Right now, students in the capital city are advised to stay put at home and wait for their schools to communicate the vaccination schedule.
