India’s Heatwaves Disrupt Education and Impact Women’s Workforce Participation

India is grappling with extreme heatwaves, with temperatures exceeding 41°C (105.8°F), leading to widespread school closures across Delhi and approximately half of the country’s 28 states. Schools have been ordered to remain shut from mid-May until the end of June, coinciding with the start of the summer break in many regions. This unprecedented disruption has significantly affected families, particularly working women, who are struggling to balance childcare with professional responsibilities.

Sakshi Katyal, a mother from Noida, shared her experience of juggling her daughter's online classes amid the closures. After moving to the area for better access to education, she found herself forced to leave her higher-paying job for a less demanding role to manage the challenges of childcare. The continuous school disruptions have taken a toll on her family's finances, now relying on a single income while managing a mortgage of approximately ₹50,000 (£390). Katyal's situation reflects a broader trend, as many women are exiting the workforce due to the added pressures of childcare during these heat-induced school closures.

The rise in school shutdowns due to extreme weather is unprecedented, with no official records available for past years. However, school officials indicate that closures have increased sharply, raising concerns about the long-term implications for education and gender equality in the workforce. As families adapt to these changes, the impact on women’s employment prospects and economic stability becomes increasingly pronounced, highlighting the intersection of climate change and social equity in India.