Srinagar, Nov. 24 -- For years, winter vacations in Kashmir have been considered a routine part of the academic calendar. With temperatures dipping below freezing, the logic behind closing schools has historically revolved around safety, comfort, and the inability of institutions to provide adequate heating. However, in today's context, this long-standing practice seems outdated-and, more importantly, harmful to the academic progress of students.

Winter vacations, which frequently stretch for three to four months, have been affecting studies to the worst extent possible. At a time when the world is racing ahead with year-round academic engagement, uninterrupted learning, and advanced classroom infrastructure, our students are forced into...