**Cold Wave Chaos: Tamil Nadu Banks Shut, Jharkhand Schools Closed on New Year's Day**

In a striking contrast highlighting India's diverse weather patterns, Tamil Nadu has closed banks on New Year's Day 2026, while Jharkhand has extended school holidays due to a severe cold wave, affecting daily life across these states.

As India ushered in 2026 with celebrations, several states including Tamil Nadu observed bank holidays. Banks in Mizoram, Tamil Nadu, Sikkim, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, West Bengal, and Meghalaya remained shut, impacting financial transactions for residents.[1]

Meanwhile, in Jharkhand, the government extended school closures amid biting cold conditions. All government and private schools from KG to Class 12 halted offline classes until at least December 31, 2025, with temperatures dropping sharply in Ranchi and other areas, prioritizing student safety.[2]

This divergence underscores regional disparities: Tamil Nadu's relatively milder weather allows normal operations in most sectors except banking holidays, whereas Jharkhand battles intense cold waves prompting educational shutdowns similar to those in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.[1][2]

Security remains heightened nationwide for New Year festivities, but no specific incidents tie directly to these states in recent reports. Public transport continues normally, and stock markets stay open.[1]