Public Holidays in January 2026: Full List, Gazetted and Restricted Days Explained

Public holidays play a key role in shaping work schedules, school calendars, and travel plans. January 2026 brings a mix of national observances and cultural festivals, though only one day in the month qualifies as a gazetted holiday. The rest fall under the restricted category, meaning closures depend largely on institutional policy.

Understanding the difference between gazetted and restricted holidays helps employees and students plan their time off more effectively.

Gazetted vs Restricted Holidays: What’s the Difference?

Public holidays in India fall into two main categories — gazetted and restricted.

Gazetted holidays are officially declared by the government and published in the Gazette of India. On these days, central and state government offices, schools, banks, and most formal institutions remain closed across the country.

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Restricted holidays are optional. Employees can choose to take leave based on personal, religious, or cultural preference. Offices usually function as usual, though staffing levels may be lower. Institutions decide whether to allow or observe these holidays internally.

January 2026 includes both types, but only one date mandates a nationwide closure.

Complete List of Public Holidays in January 2026

January 1, 2026 – New Year’s Day (Restricted)

The first day of the year is marked as a restricted holiday. While many private companies and schools may remain closed or operate on shorter hours, government offices do not shut automatically.

January 3, 2026 – Hazrat Ali’s Birthday (Restricted)

This day is observed by sections of the Muslim community. Employees may opt for leave where applicable, but offices generally remain open.

January 14, 2026 – Makar Sankranti / Magha Bihu / Pongal (Restricted)

Multiple harvest festivals fall on this date. Observance varies widely by region, especially in states like Tamil Nadu, Assam, and parts of north India. At the central level, it remains a restricted holiday.

January 23, 2026 – Sri Panchami / Basant Panchami (Restricted)

Often linked with Saraswati Puja, this day is commonly observed by schools, colleges, and cultural institutions, though it is not a compulsory holiday.

January 26, 2026 – Republic Day (Gazetted)

Republic Day is the only gazetted holiday in January 2026. Government offices, schools, banks, and most workplaces remain closed nationwide.

What This Means for Offices and Schools

With Republic Day as the only mandatory holiday, January remains a relatively working-heavy month. Schools, colleges, and offices may choose to observe selected restricted holidays based on regional practices and internal rules.

Employees are advised to check official holiday lists and workplace policies in advance to plan leave smoothly.

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