India, March 20 -- The state school education department's decision to extend final examinations for Classes 1 to 9 till April 25 has sparked widespread concern among parents, teachers, and school management committees (SMCs). The rescheduled Periodic Assessment Test (PAT) timetable deviates from the usual practice of concluding exams by April 15, raising fears over student well-being due to soaring temperatures.

With over 70 lakh students in government and aided schools affected, many stakeholders have urged the state's education minister to reconsider the new schedule. Parents and teachers argue that most rural schools lack basic infrastructure, including concrete rooftops and fans, making it difficult for students to endure the extrem...