In view of the orange alert for severe heatwave conditions across Chandigarh and North India, the Haryana government has announced summer vacation in state schools from May 25 to June 30.This was announced by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini during the review meeting in the presence of Education minister Mahipal Dhanda and other administrative officers in Chandigarh today.The government has also decided to make voluntary labour (shramdaan) mandatory in the curriculum of government schools in Haryana. Necessary instructions have been issued to the officials concerned so that students can develop discipline, participation and a sense of social responsibility.To make the teaching system more effective, the CM, on the suggestion of the education minister, directed to put a bar on teachers to carry mobile phones into classrooms.“Teachers’ mobile phones will remain deposited in the Principal’s office, and complete restriction on mobile phone use during teaching hours will be ensured so that studies are not affected and students receive a better academic environment,” the CM directed.‘Chief Minister Excellence and Early English Schools’The CM took a major step in the education sector by launching Chief Minister Excellence and Early English Schools. In line with the Budget Announcement 2026-27, around 250 identified schools were inaugurated in the first phase. These schools will be developed on the lines of Prime Minister Excellence Schools and Model Schools.These schools will be affiliated with the Haryana Board of School Education and will provide education in Hindi and English. Modern resources, improved infrastructure, laboratories, smart classrooms and quality teaching systems will be developed in these schools. Teachers and principals will be selected through a screening process to ensure quality education for students.Directions to strengthen school buildings, infrastructure, facilitiesThe CM issued directions that new buildings should be constructed on priority at schools whose buildings have been declared dilapidated or unusable. He also directed that toilets, drinking water, gardening and other essential facilities should be ensured in schools.He said that new primary schools should be established in villages wherever required. He also directed that the need for teachers and other staff in schools should be fulfilled on priority.Emphasis on smart classrooms, accountability, teacher availabilityThe CM directed that smart classrooms in schools should be made fully functional. He further stated that in schools facing teacher shortages or absenteeism, live classes should be conducted through smart classrooms and two-way communication systems. The Chief Minister added that until regular arrangements are made, services of willing retired teachers may be taken on a voluntary basis and honorarium may be provided as per rules.To promote sports activities in schools, the CM directed that sports periods should be conducted effectively and properly planned. He said that schools should create an environment where students and parents feel that every class provides a better learning experience.The CM also instructed officials to conduct surveys regarding gardening and plantation work in school campuses and ensure protection and maintenance of planted saplings. He stressed fixing accountability of officials and focusing on better educational outcomes.