Himachal Pradesh Government Approves Two-Shift System for Overcrowded CBSE Schools

March 3, 2026

Shimla: The Himachal Pradesh Education Directorate has issued a historic order allowing overcrowded CBSE-affiliated government senior secondary schools to operate in two shifts. The decision comes after mounting pressure from parents and students seeking admission in English-medium and CBSE schools across the state.

Education Director Ashish Kohli clarified that this arrangement will be implemented immediately in schools where classrooms are insufficient to accommodate additional sections.

Why the Two-Shift System Was Introduced

Himachal Pradesh currently has 148 CBSE-affiliated government schools. Due to their rising popularity and limited infrastructure, the schools faced heavy admissions pressure.

The two-shift system ensures that no eligible student is denied education because of space constraints. The order specifies that only schools where extra sections cannot be added will adopt this system.

Key Features of the New Arrangement

Junior and Senior Shifts: Morning shifts will host primary and junior classes, while afternoon shifts will accommodate senior classes.

Temporary Provision: The arrangement applies only to schools with infrastructure limitations. Schools capable of expanding sections will continue regular single-shift operations.

Parent Choice: Parents are not pressured to select a shift. They can choose nearby government schools if they prefer an alternative schedule.

Safety and Discipline: Schools are instructed to maintain cleanliness, security, and discipline across both shifts.

The Education Directorate also plans to consider merging schools with low enrollment or downgrading certain institutions if infrastructure becomes sufficient in the future.

Additionally, recruitment of teachers and non-teaching staff will begin soon to strengthen staffing in all 148 CBSE schools and support the two-shift system effectively.