PANAJI
In a major decision, the High Court of Bombay at Goa on Monday disposed of the writ petition challenging Goa government’s decision to commence the 2025-26 academic year in April for Grades 6 to 10 and Grade 12. The decision followed the government’s assurance to notify the new rules any time after March 27.
During the hearing, Advocate General Devidas Pangam submitted to the Court that, as previously assured, it would consider suggestions/ objections to the draft notification amending rules under the Goa School Education Act, 1984, before issuing a final notification.
The Education Department recently extended the public feedback period for the draft notification by an additional ten days, after an initial five-day window.
“After notifying the draft rules this month, the government sought objections from parents and other stakeholders. The deadline is till March 27. All feedback will be considered and the final notification will be issued any time after that date,” the AG said after which the Court disposed of the plea.
Around 400 suggestions and objections have been received by the government on the new academic year so far.
As per the draft rules, the academic year for Classes VI to X and Class XII will commence on April 7 and conclude in March. Meanwhile, Classes I to V and Class XI will follow a June-to-April schedule, beginning on June 5.
“A one-month summer vacation is mandatory,” Pangam added during the hearing. The government has also clarified that there will be a one-week gap between the two academic years.
Earlier, on March 10, the High Court had issued notices to the Union Ministry of Education and the Goa government, seeking a response to the petition filed by some activists and parents. During the initial hearing, AG Pangam stated that the decision was made after thorough deliberation.
“Last year, the government had planned to start the academic year on April 1 and continue till April 30. However, we decided to implement the change this year. Classes will be held till 11:30 am and will resume in June. This schedule ensures that adequate care has been taken,” he explained adding, “it is for the betterment of students and education. It is time to move forward and adjust.”
