Mizoram declares holiday for schools, half day for government offices for FIFA World Cup final | Today’s news
Mizoram has declared a full holiday for all schools, colleges and other educational institutions on Monday, while government offices will function only from the afternoon to allow people to watch the FIFA World Cup final.
An office memorandum issued by the general administration department on Sunday said all schools, colleges and other educational institutions under the state government will remain closed on Monday, allowing students and staff to watch the World Cup final.
Government offices, except banking institutions, will observe the half holiday and remain closed during the morning. It will resume operations from 1 to 5 p.m., it said.
The government said the decision was taken in view of the widespread public interest in the FIFA World Cup final to be played after midnight in India.
“All heads of departments and offices shall ensure that essential and emergency services remain operational without interruption and shall take appropriate action whenever necessary,” the memorandum said.
Chief Minister Lalduhoma said football holds a special place in the hearts of the Mizo people and many youths in the state have the potential to build careers through the sport.
“We the Miz are big fans of football and there are now many among our youth who are skilled enough to make a living from the sport. We also desire to nurture and produce more such talented youths,” he said in a social media post, sharing a government memorandum.
The CM described the FIFA World Cup as “the biggest show on the planet” and said the final will be played after midnight in India, making it difficult for many football fans to watch the match and report to work or school early in the morning.
“Therefore, following the practice adopted by some football-loving states, and so that we can all comfortably watch the game together, we have decided to declare July 20 as a holiday for all schools. Government offices will have a half-holiday, offices will open from 1 p.m.,” he added.
Lalduhoma urged the people of Mizoram to enjoy the World Cup Final with joy and enthusiasm.
Several private schools have also declared a holiday on Monday in view of the finals.
