The Uttar Pradesh government has announced that January 15, 2026 will be observed as a public holiday across the state to mark the festival of Makar Sankranti.

According to the official order, all government offices, schools, colleges, and state-run institutions in Uttar Pradesh will remain closed on this day. The decision ensures that people can fully participate in the religious and cultural celebrations of the festival.

Earlier, the state holiday calendar had mentioned January 14 as a restricted holiday. However, after reviewing the festival dates and traditional importance, the government revised its decision and declared January 15 as the official holiday instead.

Makar Sankranti is one of the most important festivals in India. It marks the sun’s transition into the zodiac sign of Capricorn and is celebrated with activities such as kite flying, holy river baths, charity, and special traditional foods.

The government’s decision allows citizens across Uttar Pradesh to celebrate the festival with their families and communities without any official or academic commitments.