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Delhi-NCR Braces for Smog Season as GRAP-I Kicks In Amid Rising Pollution Levels

Experts, however, warn that the steps may not be sufficient if firecracker burning and stubble burning do not come under control. “Every year, GRAP starts reactively rather than proactively,” said Centre for Science and Environment (CSE)’s Sunita Narain. With the festive season in sight, the air quality in Delhi-NCR has again begun to worsen, leading authorities to enforce Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The decision was taken after the Air Quality Index (AQI) of many areas in the capital dipped into the ‘poor’ category, signaling the premature beginning of pollution season. What Initiates GRAP-I Implementation The overall AQI in Delhi exceeded the 200-mark, with areas such as Anand Vihar, Jahangirpuri, and Ghaziabad reporting higher pollution levels, according to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). In light of this, the commission asked all NCR states to implement GRAP-I measures with immediate effect to avoid further degradation. Experts attributed deteriorating air quality to stubble burning in other states, enhanced vehicle emissions, and construction activities. With Diwali and winter around the corner, the situation is likely to deteriorate unless preventive measures are adopted stringently. What GRAP-I Means for Citizens In Stage I (Poor AQI range: 201–300) of GRAP, many restrictions have been enacted: • Ban on open burning of waste and biomass •\tClose monitoring of construction and demolition work \t•\tPeriodic water sprinkling and mechanized sweeping of roads \t•\tEncouragement of public transport over private transport \t•\tShutting down of diesel generator sets (with the exception of emergency services) The CAQM has also asked municipal corporations to ramp up street sweeping work, inspect dust emissions, and conduct timely waste collection in order to reduce pollution. Government and Expert Responses Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai informed that the government has begun launching anti-dust campaigns and is in close coordination with NCR states. “The emphasis is on stopping the situation from falling in the ‘very poor’ category,” he added. Experts, however, warn that the steps may not be sufficient if firecracker burning and stubble burning do not come under control. “Every year, GRAP starts reactively rather than proactively,” said Centre for Science and Environment (CSE)’s Sunita Narain.

தீபாவளி நெருங்கும் நிலையில்.. டெல்லியில் செயற்கை மழைக்கு வாய்ப்பு - அப்படிப்போடு!

வானிலை நிலைகள் சாதகமாக இருந்தால், அடுத்த இரண்டு முதல் மூன்று நாட்களுக்குள் டெல்லி அரசு மேக விதைப்பு (Cloud Seeding) அல்லது செயற்கை மழையைச் செயல்படுத்தும் என்று டெல்லி சுற்றுச்சூழல் துறை அமைச்சர் மஞ்சிந்தர் சிங் சிர்சா தெரிவித்துள்ளார். தீபாவளி பண்டிகைக்கு ஒரு வாரம் முன்னதாகவே GRAP நடைமுறைக்கு வருவது, குளிர்காலத்தில் டெல்லியில் கடுமையான காற்று மாசு நிலவப்போவதற்கான முதல் அறிகுறியாகும். இதற்கிடையில், இன்று உச்ச நீதிமன்றம், மாசுவைக் கட்டுப்படுத்துவதற்கும், மக்கள் தீபாவளியைக் கொண்டாடுவதை உறுதி செய்வதற்கும் இடையே சமநிலையைப் பேணும் வகையில், தீபாவளியின்போது பசுமைப் பட்டாசுகளை (Green Crackers) விற்பனை செய்யவும் பயன்படுத்தவும் அனுமதி வழங்கியது. மேக விதைப்பு, GRAP மற்றும் பசுமைப் பட்டாசுகள் ஆகியவை தனித்தனியாகத் தோன்றினாலும், தேசியத் தலைநகரில் மாசைக் கட்டுப்படுத்துவது என்பதே இதன் ஒற்றை இலக்கு. டெல்லியில் மேக விதைப்பு (Cloud Seeding): மேக விதைப்புக்கான சோதனைப் பயிற்சி நிறைவடைந்துவிட்டதாக அமைச்சர் சிர்சா தெரிவித்துள்ளார். இதுகுறித்து அவர், "வரும் இரண்டு அல்லது மூன்று நாட்களில் வானிலை நிலைகள் பொருத்தமாக இருந்தால், இந்திய வானிலை ஆய்வுத் துறையின் (IMD) ஒப்புதலுடன், அரசு மூன்று மணி நேரம் இந்தச் செயல்முறையை மேற்கொள்ளும் என்று கூறினார். டெல்லி அரசு குறைந்தது மூன்று மாதங்களாகச் செயற்கை மழையைச் செயல்படுத்தத் திட்டமிட்டுள்ளது. முதலில் ஜூலை 4 முதல் 11 வரை மேக விதைப்பு நடத்தத் திட்டமிடப்பட்டது. ஆனால், மாசு அளவு குறைவாக இருக்கும் பருவமழைக் காலத்தில் மழையை வரவழைக்கும் யோசனை விமர்சனத்தை ஏற்படுத்தியது. இருப்பினும், நிபுணர்களின் கூற்றுப்படி, மேக விதைப்புக்கு பருவமழை மேகங்கள் தேவைப்படுகின்றன. இந்திய வானிலை ஆய்வுத் துறை (IMD) மற்றும் புனேவில் உள்ள இந்திய வெப்பமண்டல வானிலை ஆய்வு நிறுவனம் (IITM) ஆகியவற்றின் நிபுணர் பரிந்துரைகளைப் பின்பற்றி, இந்தத் திட்டம் மாற்றப்பட்டு, ஆகஸ்ட் 30 முதல் செப்டம்பர் 10 வரையிலான காலம் தேர்ந்தெடுக்கப்பட்டது. மேக விதைப்பு என்றால் என்ன? மேக விதைப்பு என்பது, தண்ணீர் பற்றாக்குறை, பனிப்பொழிவு குறைவு உள்ள பகுதிகளில் மழை அல்லது பனியை வரவழைக்க, அல்லது ஆலங்கட்டியை (Hail) குறைக்கவும், மூடுபனியைக் (Fog) குறைக்கவும், சில்வர் அயோடைடு (silver iodide) மற்றும் உலர் பனி (dry ice) போன்ற சிறப்புப் பொருட்களை மேகங்களில் சேர்க்கும் ஒரு செயல்முறையாகும். இது விமானங்கள், ராக்கெட்டுகள் அல்லது தரையில் உள்ள இயந்திரங்களைப் பயன்படுத்திச் செய்யப்படலாம். ஐஐடி கான்பூர் உருவாக்கியுள்ள இந்தச் செயற்கை மழை கலவையில், சில்வர் அயோடைடு நானோ துகள்கள், அயோடைஸ்டு உப்பு மற்றும் பாறை உப்பு ஆகியவை அடங்கும். டெல்லியின் மோசமான காற்று மாசுபாடு: அறிவியல் மற்றும் சுற்றுச்சூழல் மையத்தின் (Centre for Science and Environment) பகுப்பாய்வின்படி, 2024-25 குளிர்காலத்தில் டெல்லியில் சராசரியாக PM2.5 செறிவு ஒரு கன மீட்டருக்கு 175 மைக்ரோகிராம்களாக இருந்தது. இதன் மூலம், டெல்லி இந்தியாவின் மிகவும் மாசடைந்த மெகாசிட்டியாக நீடித்தது. சிகாகோ எரிசக்தி கொள்கை நிறுவனத்தின் (EPIC) அறிக்கையின்படி, உலக சுகாதார அமைப்பின் (WHO) வழிகாட்டுதல்களுடன் ஒப்பிடும்போது, நகரத்தில் உள்ள காற்று மாசுபாடு குடிமக்களின் ஆயுட்காலத்தை சராசரியாக 11.9 ஆண்டுகள் குறைப்பதாகக் கண்டறியப்பட்டுள்ளது. உள்ளூர் முதல் உலகம் வரை பரபரப்பான ஹாட் செய்திகளை உடனுக்குடன் அறிய மாலைமுரசு யூடியூப் சேனலை காண இங்கே கிளிக் செய்யவும்.

Delhi Is Currently One of the Most Polluted Cities in the World: The Hidden Cost of Development

Delhi: Most Populated Cities: The sun frequently finds it difficult to break through the dense layer of gray haze that covers Delhi as it rises. Delhi, which was formerly regarded as the center of Indian culture and tradition, is today notorious for being one of the most polluted cities in the world. Delhi was at the top of the pollution lists in October 2025, according to international air quality monitoring organizations like IQAir and the World Air Quality Index (WAQI), with PM2.5 levels above 480 µg/m³, which is about 20 times higher than the WHO’s acceptable limit. More than 30 million people, from infants to the elderly, are impacted by the city’s pollution catastrophe, which is becoming a year-round public health emergency rather than a seasonal headline. Vehicle Emissions: The Daily Offense Every day, a large number of automobiles, motorcycles, buses, and trucks fill Delhi’s roadways, releasing harmful pollutants. Even with the implementation of Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) pollution standards, advancements are still being hampered by fuel adulteration, traffic jams, and outdated automobiles. Nearly 40% of Delhi’s winter pollution is caused by vehicle emissions, according to the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE). Although the use of electric vehicles (EVs) has increased, the infrastructure is still insufficient to have a significant impact.

HARNESSING TECHNOLOGY FOR EFFECTIVE DISASTER MANAGEMENT IN INDIA

India is increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather events driven by climate change, including floods, landslides, cloudbursts, and heatwaves. These disasters result in loss of life, destruction of infrastructure, disruption of livelihoods, and long-term ecological damage. According to the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), India witnessed extreme weather events on over 300 days per year between 2022 and 2024. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) projects further intensification of monsoons, heatwaves, and floods in the coming years. Therefore, there is an urgent need to harness modern technologies for disaster management and climate resilience.

भारत का खाद्य और औषधि नियंत्रण — जब व्यवस्था ही जहर बन जाए तो क्या?

आज भारत का जन स्वास्थ्य आपातकाल की चपेट में है। देश में 10 करोड़ से अधिक मधुमेह रोगी हैं, हृदय रोग और कैंसर की दरें लगातार बढ़ रही हैं, और बचपन का मोटापा नए खतरे के स्तर पर पहुंच चुका है। यह संकट किसी संयोग का परिणाम नहीं, बल्कि उस व्यवस्थागत गिरावट का परिणाम है जो हमारे खाद्य और औषधि सुरक्षा ढांचे में गहराई तक प्रवेश कर चुकी है। भ्रष्टाचार और लापरवाही का जाल भारतीय खाद्य सुरक्षा एवं मानक प्राधिकरण (एफएसएसएआई), जिसे देश की खाद्य सुरक्षा की गारंटी देनी चाहिए, उसका हाल स्वयं एक चेतावनी है। मई 2024 में सीबीआई ने मुंबई स्थित एफएसएसएआई के सहायक निदेशक को रिश्वत लेते गिरफ्तार किया छापेमारी में करोड़ों की अवैध संपत्ति मिली। यही नहीं, भारत के नियंत्रक एवं महालेखा परीक्षक (सीएजी) की 2023 की रिपोर्ट में सामने आया कि देशभर में लिए गए करीब एक-तिहाई खाद्य नमूने सुरक्षा मानकों पर खरे नहीं उतरे, लेकिन केवल कुछ ही पर कार्रवाई हुई। आरटीआई खुलासों ने भी एक चिंताजनक तस्वीर पेश की है। 2018 से 2022 के बीच 35 लाख से अधिक खाद्य लाइसेंस जारी हुए, पर केवल गिने-चुने रद्द किए गए। इसका सीधा अर्थ है कि जो भी बाजार में है, वह लगभग बिना डर के है। कॉर्पोरेट जगत की भूमिका भी उतनी ही सवालों के घेरे में है। जैसे की नेस्ले का सेरेलैक भारत में अतिरिक्त चीनी के साथ बेचा जाता है, जबकि यूरोप में यही उत्पाद बिना किसी अतिरिक्त चीनी के मिलता है। एमडीएच और एवरेस्ट मसालों में कैंसरकारी तत्व पाए जाने पर सिंगापुर और हांगकांग ने कई बैचों पर प्रतिबंध लगाया। सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरनमेंट (सीएसई) ने भी शहद, दूध और पनीर में मिलावट के साक्ष्य उजागर किए हैं। यह केवल व्यापारिक प्रतिस्पर्धा नहीं, नागरिकों के स्वास्थ्य से सीधा खिलवाड़ है। अब कफ सिरप कांड हाल ही में देश के सामने आया है। कफ सिरप हादसे ने इस तंत्र की नाकामी को एक बार फिर से उजागर कर दिया। इस सिरप के कारण मध्यप्रदेश और राजस्थान में दर्जनों बच्चों की मौत हो गयी जिसमें डाइइथाइलीन ग्लाइकोल जैसे जहरीले तत्व पाए गए। भारत निर्मित सर्पों ने पहले भी कई देशों में जान ले चुके उधर, विश्व स्वास्थ्य संगठन (WHO) ने इस विषय पर चिंता जताते कहा कि जब औषधि और खाद्य सुरक्षा, दोनों ही निगरानी प्रणालियां जवाबदेह नहीं रहीं, तो नतीजा सिर्फ़ मौतें ही हैं। व्यवस्था के नाम पर देरी भारत में इस से संबंधित मंत्रालय और विभाग है l वो इतने गेर जिम्मेदार है कि भारत में ट्रांस फैट को खत्म करने के लिए WHO ने समय सीमा सन 2023 तय की थी, लेकिन हमारे देश में यह नियम 2024 में जाकर पूरी तरह लागू हुआ। इसी तरह पैक के आगे चेतावनी लेबल (एफओपीएल) नीति, जो उपभोक्ताओं को अस्वास्थ्यकर उत्पादों की पहचान करने में मदद करती, वह भी पांच वर्षों से लंबित है। जवाबदेही की मांग यह अब महज़ नीतिगत बहस नहीं रही। यह सवाल जीवन और मृत्यु का है। नागरिकों को यह अधिकार है कि उन्हें बताया जाए कि वे क्या खा रहे हैं, क्या पी रहे हैं। अब जरूरी है एफएसएसएआई में उच्च-स्तरीय स्वतंत्र जांच भ्रष्टाचार और नियामक शिथिलता पर पारदर्शी रिपोर्ट जारी हो। कफ सिरप जैसे मामलों में त्वरित ट्रेसिंग और रिकॉल सिस्टम हो ताकि जहरीली दवाएं बाजार में न रहें और न आ सके। एफओपीएल नीति का तत्काल क्रियान्वयन उपभोक्ता को सच जानने का अधिकार मिले। कॉर्पोरेट जवाबदेही हो और दोहरे मानक अपनाने वाली कंपनियों पर सख्त दंड हो। भारत को अब तय करना होगा क्या हम एक ऐसे देश में जीना चाहते हैं जहां हर निवाला और हर दवा संभावित जहर हो। जन स्वास्थ्य की रक्षा का वादा करने वाले संस्थानों को अब केवल कानून नहीं, विश्वास भी वापस कमाना होगा। क्योंकि जब व्यवस्था ही ज़हर बन जाए, तो मौन रहना भी अपराध होता है। अब सिर्फ भारत के नागरिकों को ही नहीं बल्कि जनस्वास्थ्य और जन खाद्य के लिए देश को तो जागरूक होना ही होगा इस से पहले स्वास्थ्य विभाग खाद्य विभाग के मंत्रालयों को भी उनके अंदर फैले भ्रष्टाचार को समाप्त करना होगा तभी जाकर आपातकाल स्थिति से बचा जा सकता है l

GM Food Regulations: HC Directs FSSAI to Act

Submitting a study by the Centre for Science and Environment, the petitioner flagged the "presence of GM ingredients" in India. The Rajasthan High Court has restrained food regulator FSSAI and the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) from granting permission for sale, manufacturing, distribution or import of any genetically modified (GM) food stuff or edible items in India before framing necessary regulations. Terming the requirement of regulations a pressing need with regard to the direct and vital bearing of the issue on public health, the high court's Jaipur bench, in its order on Monday, directed the FSSAI and the Centre to frame and notify the regulations under Section 22 of the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006 regarding GM food articles within six months, while following the procedure provided in the Act. A bench of Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Prakash Sharma and Justice Sanjeet Purohit gave these directions while allowing a PIL which raised concern regarding the alleged sale, manufacturing, distribution or import of GM articles in India in violation of Section 22 of the Act. In a joint counter affidavit filed by the Centre, the Department of Consumer Affairs and GEAC, it was admitted that no regulations, standards or guidelines regulating GM food have been framed by the FSSAI under Section 22 of the Act. In its observation, the court noted that it was astonishing that while the issue of GM organisms in edible products is a matter of significant concern, yet the relevant regulations have not been finalised and notified by the Centre. "Although the FSSAI has been established, yet the GEAC has been allowed to approve the import of GM edible oil in India due to the absence of regulations under Section 22 of the Act," the court said. Clearance of the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), a statutory committee, is mandatory for the environmental release of Genetically Modified crops. The petitioners prayed for immediate prohibition on GM food/processed food, "ceasing of the stock already available in the Indian market, prohibiting further sale and withdrawal of all the permissions granted by GEAC to import, sale, distribute and manufacture GM food". During the arguments, the petitioners flagged the absence of a proper regulatory mechanism regarding GM or GE food in India and admission by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare confirming the absence of any standards for GM food. Submitting a study by the Centre for Science and Environment, the petitioner flagged the "presence of GM ingredients" in India. The court directed the Centre and the FSSAI to ensure that no import of any GM food stuff or edible or packaged food items takes place and directed the customs authorities across the state to ensure strict compliance with the directions.

Winter Is Coming: Anti-Pollution Curbs Imposed In Delhi For 1st Time This Season

Signalling the annual return of the dreaded pollution in the capital, the Commission for Air Quality Management, which is the Centre's anti-pollution panel, has enforced curbs under GRAP-1 in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). The CAQM announced the decision on Tuesday, when Delhi's Air Quality Index was recorded at 211, which is in the 'Poor' category. The Sub-Committee on GRAP, in a review meeting, analysed real-time data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) alongside forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). "The AQI has entered the 'Poor' threshold, and projections indicate sustained levels in this range over the coming days due to stagnant weather conditions," the committee noted in its order. This marks the first formal activation of GRAP measures for the season. Under Stage-I ('Poor' Air Quality, AQI 201-300), a slew of enforcement actions will have to be taken by district administrations, pollution control boards and municipal bodies in Delhi as well as NCR districts in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Punjab. The key measures include: Construction Dust Control: Strict ban on labour-intensive construction activities without dust mitigation; mandatory water sprinkling at all project sites. Industrial and Vehicular Curbs: Heightened inspections of polluting industries and enhanced CNG compliance for public transport. Waste Management: Putting an immediate stop to all garbage-burning activities, and intensifying bio-medical waste handling protocols. Road and Power Sector: Black carbon emission audits for heavy vehicles; power plants within 10 km of Delhi to switch to 100% piped natural gas. The order emphasises rigorous monitoring, with all agencies directed to "intensify measures" and maintain "strict vigil" to prevent the AQI from slipping into 'Very Poor' or 'Severe' categories. Citizens are also urged to follow the GRAP Stage-I Citizen Charter, which includes voluntary steps like using public transport, avoiding outdoor exertion during peak pollution hours (evenings), and reporting violations via CAQM's helpline (1800-180-1708). Environmental experts welcomed the intervention but cautioned that deeper structural reforms are needed. "GRAP is a band-aid; without tackling stubble burning and interstate coordination head-on, we are just postponing the inevitable smog blanket," said Dr Anumita Roychowdhury, Executive Director of the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE). Data from IITM's high-resolution forecasting system, which boasts over 80% accuracy in predicting 'Very Poor' episodes, underscores this: Calm winds and clear skies forecast for the next week could trap pollutants, potentially elevating the AQI to 250+ by the end of the month. Also, while September has been relatively clean this year, historical trends show Delhi's AQI plummets after Diwali.

Delhi’s air quality deteriorates: CAQM enforces Stage-I curbs under GRAP

Signalling the annual return of toxic air in the capital, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), the Centre’s anti-pollution panel, has enforced Stage-I restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). The decision, announced on Tuesday, came as Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) touched 211, placing it in the ‘Poor’ category, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The Sub-Committee on GRAP, after reviewing real-time CPCB data and forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), noted that the AQI was likely to remain in this range due to stagnant weather conditions. This marks the first formal activation of GRAP measures this season. Key Measures under GRAP Stage-I (‘Poor’ Air Quality, AQI 201–300) Construction Dust Control: Strict ban on construction activities without dust-mitigation systems; mandatory water sprinkling at project sites. Industrial and Vehicular Curbs: Intensified inspections of polluting industries and enhanced CNG compliance for public transport. Waste Management: Immediate halt to garbage burning and stricter biomedical waste handling. Road and Power Sector: Black carbon emission audits for heavy vehicles; power plants within 10 km of Delhi must operate on 100% piped natural gas. All local agencies, including municipal bodies, pollution control boards, and district administrations in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Punjab, have been asked to intensify enforcement to prevent a slide into the ‘Very Poor’ or ‘Severe’ categories. Citizens have been urged to adhere to the GRAP Stage-I Citizen Charter, which recommends using public transport, avoiding outdoor exercise during evening hours, and reporting pollution violations via CAQM’s helpline (1800-180-1708). Environmental experts, however, have warned that these steps are temporary. “GRAP is a band-aid. Without addressing stubble burning and interstate coordination, we’re just postponing the inevitable smog blanket,” said Dr Anumita Roychowdhury, Executive Director, Centre for Science and Environment (CSE). Forecasts from IITM’s high-resolution model, which has over 80% accuracy in predicting ‘Very Poor’ pollution episodes, suggest calm winds and clear skies over the next week could trap pollutants, potentially pushing the AQI above 250 by the end of the month. While September saw relatively cleaner air this year, historical data show Delhi’s AQI plunges sharply after Diwali.

Delhi enforces first anti-pollution curbs of the season

Signalling the annual return of the capital’s pollution season, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), the Centre’s anti-pollution panel, has enforced Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). The CAQM announced the decision on Tuesday after Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 211 — a level classified as ‘Poor’. This marks the first formal activation of GRAP measures for the 2025–26 winter season. The Sub-Committee on GRAP, in a review meeting, assessed real-time data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) along with forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). “The AQI has entered the ‘Poor’ threshold, and projections indicate sustained levels in this range over the coming days due to stagnant weather conditions,” the committee noted in its order. Under Stage I (‘Poor’ Air Quality, AQI 201–300), a series of enforcement measures will now be implemented by district administrations, pollution control boards, and municipal bodies across Delhi and NCR districts in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Punjab. The key measures under GRAP Stage I focus on construction dust control, waste management, and emission reduction: Construction Dust Control: A strict ban has been imposed on labour-intensive construction activities that do not follow dust mitigation norms. Water sprinkling at all project sites has been made mandatory. Industrial and Vehicular Curbs: Inspections of polluting industries will be intensified, and compliance with CNG norms for public transport will be reinforced. Waste Management: Immediate prohibition of garbage-burning activities has been ordered, alongside tighter protocols for the handling of bio-medical waste. Road and Power Sector: Black carbon emission audits will be conducted for heavy vehicles, while power plants within 10 km of Delhi are required to operate solely on piped natural gas. The CAQM order emphasises strict monitoring, directing all enforcement agencies to “intensify measures” and maintain a “strict vigil” to prevent air quality from deteriorating further into the ‘Very Poor’ or ‘Severe’ categories. Citizens have been urged to adhere to the GRAP Stage I Citizen Charter, which encourages voluntary actions such as using public transport, avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during peak pollution hours, and reporting violations via CAQM’s helpline (1800-180-1708). Environmental experts have welcomed the intervention but warned that deeper systemic reforms are crucial. “GRAP is a band-aid; without tackling stubble burning and interstate coordination head-on, we are just postponing the inevitable smog blanket,” said Dr Anumita Roychowdhury, Executive Director of the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE). Data from IITM’s high-resolution forecasting system, which maintains over 80 per cent accuracy in predicting ‘Very Poor’ air quality episodes, supports these concerns. Calm winds and clear skies forecast for the next week could trap pollutants, potentially pushing Delhi’s AQI above 250 by the end of the month. While September has been comparatively cleaner this year, historical trends indicate that Delhi’s air quality typically worsens sharply after Diwali, reinforcing the urgency for sustained preventive measures.

HC directs FSSAI Centre to notify regulations for GM food under Food Safety Act 2006 within 6 months

The Rajasthan High Court has restrained food regulator FSSAI and the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) from granting permission for sale, manufacturing, distribution or import of any genetically modified (GM) food stuff or edible items in India before framing necessary regulations. Terming the requirement of regulations a pressing need with regard to the direct and vital bearing of the issue on public health, the high court's Jaipur bench, in its order on Monday, directed the FSSAI and the Centre to frame and notify the regulations under Section 22 of the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006 regarding GM food articles within six months, while following the procedure provided in the Act. A bench of Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Prakash Sharma and Justice Sanjeet Purohit gave these directions while allowing a PIL which raised concern regarding the alleged sale, manufacturing, distribution or import of GM articles in India in violation of Section 22 of the Act. In a joint counter affidavit filed by the Centre, the Department of Consumer Affairs and GEAC, it was admitted that no regulations, standards or guidelines regulating GM food have been framed by the FSSAI under Section 22 of the Act. In its observation, the court noted that it was astonishing that while the issue of GM organisms in edible products is a matter of significant concern, yet the relevant regulations have not been finalised and notified by the Centre. "Although the FSSAI has been established, yet the GEAC has been allowed to approve the import of GM edible oil in India due to the absence of regulations under Section 22 of the Act," the court said. Clearance of the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), a statutory committee, is mandatory for the environmental release of Genetically Modified crops. The petitioners prayed for immediate prohibition on GM food/processed food, "ceasing of the stock already available in the Indian market, prohibiting further sale and withdrawal of all the permissions granted by GEAC to import, sale, distribute and manufacture GM food". During the arguments, the petitioners flagged the absence of a proper regulatory mechanism regarding GM or GE food in India and admission by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare confirming the absence of any standards for GM food. Submitting a study by the Centre for Science and Environment, the petitioner flagged the "presence of GM ingredients" in India. The court directed the Centre and the FSSAI to ensure that no import of any GM food stuff or edible or packaged food items takes place and directed the customs authorities across the state to ensure strict compliance with the directions.

Delhi’s air quality deteriorates: CAQM enforces Stage-I curbs under GRAP

The decision, announced on Tuesday, came as Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) touched 211, placing it in the ‘Poor’ category, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The Sub-Committee on GRAP, after reviewing real-time CPCB data and forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), noted that the AQI was likely to remain in this range due to stagnant weather conditions. This marks the first formal activation of GRAP measures this season. Key Measures under GRAP Stage-I (‘Poor’ Air Quality, AQI 201–300) Construction Dust Control: Strict ban on construction activities without dust-mitigation systems; mandatory water sprinkling at project sites. Industrial and Vehicular Curbs: Intensified inspections of polluting industries and enhanced CNG compliance for public transport. Waste Management: Immediate halt to garbage burning and stricter biomedical waste handling. Road and Power Sector: Black carbon emission audits for heavy vehicles; power plants within 10 km of Delhi must operate on 100% piped natural gas. All local agencies, including municipal bodies, pollution control boards, and district administrations in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Punjab, have been asked to intensify enforcement to prevent a slide into the ‘Very Poor’ or ‘Severe’ categories. Citizens have been urged to adhere to the GRAP Stage-I Citizen Charter, which recommends using public transport, avoiding outdoor exercise during evening hours, and reporting pollution violations via CAQM’s helpline (1800-180-1708). Environmental experts, however, have warned that these steps are temporary. “GRAP is a band-aid. Without addressing stubble burning and interstate coordination, we’re just postponing the inevitable smog blanket,” said Dr Anumita Roychowdhury, Executive Director, Centre for Science and Environment (CSE). Forecasts from IITM’s high-resolution model, which has over 80% accuracy in predicting ‘Very Poor’ pollution episodes, suggest calm winds and clear skies over the next week could trap pollutants, potentially pushing the AQI above 250 by the end of the month. While September saw relatively cleaner air this year, historical data show Delhi’s AQI plunges sharply after Diwali.

दिल्लीवालों प्रदूषण से हो जाओ सावधान! पूरे NCR में लागू हुआ GRAP Stage 1, कितना पहुंचा AQI?

दिल्ली और राष्ट्रीय राजधानी क्षेत्र (NCR) में बढ़ते प्रदूषण के बीच केंद्रीय प्रदूषण नियंत्रण आयोग की अधीनस्थ संस्था, आयोग फॉर एयर क्वालिटी मैनेजमेंट (CAQM) ने मंगलवार को ग्रेडेड रिस्पॉन्स एक्शन प्लान (GRAP) का स्टेज-1 लागू कर दिया. दिल्ली का एयर क्वालिटी इंडेक्स (AQI) 211 दर्ज किया गया, जो “खराब” श्रेणी में आता है और अगले कुछ दिनों तक इसी स्तर पर रहने की संभावना है. GRAP-1 के तहत लागू किए गए कड़े नियमों का उद्देश्य राजधानी में प्रदूषण को “बहुत खराब” या “गंभीर” श्रेणी में जाने से रोकना है. CAQM के सब- कमिटी ने केंद्रीय प्रदूषण नियंत्रण बोर्ड (CPCB) के रियल-टाइम आंकड़ों के साथ भारतीय मौसम विभाग (IMD) और इंडियन इंस्टिट्यूट ऑफ़ ट्रॉपिकल मेट्रोलॉजी (IITM) की भविष्यवाणियों की समीक्षा के बाद यह कदम उठाया. विशेषज्ञों की चेतावनी: GRAP केवल अस्थायी उपाय सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरनमेंट (CSE) की कार्यकारी निदेशक डॉ. अनुपमिता रॉयचौधरी ने कहा, “GRAP केवल अस्थायी उपाय है; अगर हम पराली जलाने और राज्य-अंतर समन्वय पर सीधा ध्यान नहीं देंगे, तो स्मॉग का संकट टालना ही होगा. IITM के हाई-रेजोल्यूशन फोरकास्टिंग सिस्टम के आंकड़े, जो “बहुत खराब” प्रदूषण की घटनाओं का 80% से अधिक सटीक पूर्वानुमान देते हैं, दिखाते हैं कि अगले सप्ताह शांत हवाओं और साफ मौसम के कारण प्रदूषक हवा में

Powering the plough: What PM-KUSUM scheme must do to give a fillip to farmers bl-premium-article-image

Progress under the PM-KUSUM scheme has remained a mixed bag. Launched in 2019, and scheduled to end in March 2026, it is aimed at adding 34,800 MW of solar capacity by that timeline, with Central financial support of ₹34,422 crore. An analysis put out last year by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) points out that the Pradhan Mantri Kissan Urja Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyaan (PM-KUSUM) scheme has only achieved about 30 per cent of its overall targets since inception. According to replies given to a question in the Lok Sabha in August this year, as on 30 June, it is estimated that the installation of solar pumps has saved 580 million litres of diesel per annum and solar plants under PM-KUSUM have helped cut out 6 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. The scheme is structured around three main components: A (decentralised solar power plants), B (standalone solar pumps), and C (solarisation of grid-connected pumps). The highest achievement (71 per cent) against targets set has been under Component B, which covers standalone solar pump sets up to 7.5 HP. Replacing diesel pumps with solar variants is straightforward, says Vivek Gupta, director, Oswal Pumps. “The technology is proven, deployment involves fewer regulatory hurdles, and generous subsidies are available.” Central financial assistance covers 30 per cent of the benchmark cost (or 50 per cent in special category States), allowing the farmer to contribute a manageable remaining portion. Conditions applied The CSE report points out that farmers who have moved from diesel or electric pumps to solar-powered pumps have found it profitable, but only if the pumps they have installed are of the correct size. Farmers in Haryana, according to the report, are saving up to ₹55,000 per year after making the shift. The other benefit for the farmer is the ability to irrigate fields during the day, instead of having to rely on power from the grid during the night in the time slot set apart for agricultural electricity supply. The pace of solar pump installations contrasts with the slower uptake in the other major components, which are facing bottlenecks. Component A, focused on setting up decentralised grid-connected solar or renewable energy plants (up to 2 MW) on farmers’ land, has achieved only 6.5 per cent of its target as of September 2025. This segment has been hampered by the need for significant capital expenditure. Other bottlenecks include securing land, challenging discom agreements, and time-consuming regulatory approvals. Component C, which supports the solarisation of existing grid-connected pumps, is currently at 16.5 per cent penetration. Progress, on this front, has been dragged down by the local energy context, says Oswal’s Gupta. “Many areas have access to nearly zero running-cost grid connections, which dilutes the need to adopt solar solutions.” He views the overall scheme as a valuable learning rather than a failure. “The variation in adoption across components reflects the differing complexity, economics, and farmer readiness rather than flaws in the scheme itself. Component B demonstrates that when incentives, simplicity, and execution converge, adoption can be rapid.” The slower uptake in Components A, C, and D highlights areas where structural, regulatory, and awareness interventions are still needed. The scheme’s current performance validates what works and where focused efforts are needed in the final year to reach targets.” Customised approach The CSE report offers a roadmap to quicken implementation. It recommends that cheap electricity, while appreciated by farmers, diminishes the incentive to transition to solar and increases the State’s subsidy burden. Further inefficiencies arise from pump sizing. The report cites Dr Debajit Palit, Professor of Energy at the NTPC School of Business, as saying that to ensure financial viability, pump sizes must be tailored to the land size and water requirements of different areas, rather than maintaining a uniform national standard. The CSE also recommends decentralised implementation. Agencies with knowledge of farmer demographics and their needs on the ground are best placed to cater to them, rather than a centralised body. To address viability issues, the report states, farmers must be allowed the option to pay upfront costs in instalments, and seeks an increase in the Central Financial Assistance to account for the rise in solar module prices following the Covid-19 pandemic. The Standing Committee on Energy, in its second report on demand for grants for FY25, had highlighted the fact that many districts in India have become water-deficient. Hence, the subsidy for solar pumps of only up to 7.5 HP (horsepower) proved insufficient for farmers. It had recommended that the Ministry conduct a detailed study to “understand the ground situation and accordingly modify the component.”

Delhi’s Air Turns Toxic Again, What’s Behind Sudden Spike in Pollution?

Delhi’s air quality worsened on Saturday, moving close to the ‘poor’ category. At 4 pm, the Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 199, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The last time the city recorded a ‘poor’ air day was on June 11, when the AQI touched 245 before the arrival of the southwest monsoon. The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi (EWS) under the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences has predicted that the city’s air quality will remain in the ‘poor’ category from Sunday till October 14. Following this decline, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) held a review meeting on Saturday. Officials decided not to impose Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) since the AQI had not yet crossed into the ‘poor’ range. The commission will reassess conditions on Sunday. Satellite data from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) showed 64 farm fires across six states on Saturday. Of these, 42 were in Uttar Pradesh, 14 in Punjab, six in Madhya Pradesh, and one each in Haryana and Rajasthan. Despite the start of stubble burning in northern India, its impact on Delhi’s air remained minimal. The Decision Support System (DSS), which tracks pollution sources, estimated that farm fires contributed just 0.34% to Delhi’s PM2.5 levels on Friday. The main contributor was the transport sector at 19.1%, followed by emissions from Sonipat (10.8%) and residential areas in Jhajjar and Delhi (4.8% each). Experts said stronger measures are needed to reduce emissions from all sectors. Anumita Roychowdhury from the Centre for Science and Environment said, “We are entering the season of pollution emergency action once again. We need stronger preventive measures and sustained source-wise action.” Dipankar Saha, former head of the CPCB’s air laboratory, noted that after mid-October, meteorological conditions worsen, preventing the dispersion of pollutants and pushing air quality into the ‘poor to very poor’ range across the Indo-Gangetic plains. Delhi has enjoyed unusually clean air for much of October, mainly due to frequent rains that delayed paddy harvesting in Punjab and Haryana. But forecasts now show that wind speeds, which were around 14–20 kmph on Sunday, will drop to about 10 kmph by Monday evening and fall below 8 kmph by Tuesday night. Lower wind speeds slow the dispersion of pollutants, allowing them to accumulate. The AQI is expected to enter the ‘poor’ category from Wednesday and remain there through the weekend. The ventilation index, which indicates how well pollutants can disperse, is also expected to drop from 7,700 square meters per second on Sunday to 4,500 by Wednesday. A reading below 6,000 with wind speeds under 10 kmph makes dispersion difficult. Farm fire data between September 15 and October 11 show 366 incidents across northern states, 163 in Uttar Pradesh, 116 in Punjab, and 11 in Haryana. Punjab’s count remains low due to delayed harvesting after severe floods in September, which left fields waterlogged and crops damp. But officials fear the numbers may rise as farmers rush to prepare for the wheat season. Farmers are under financial pressure and have little time,” said a senior Punjab agriculture official. “They often resort to burning because it’s the fastest way to clear fields.” Haryana officials said awareness drives are ongoing but admitted that frustration remains high due to crop losses and delays. Experts warn that unless emissions from vehicles, construction, and industry are controlled along with stubble burning, Delhi-NCR could face another winter of poor air quality.

Trump's rebranding of climate change is aimed more at global regime change

Donald Trump has spoken from the global pulpit. Speaking on the 80th anniversary of the United Nations (UN), the United States (US) President called climate change a “big con” and by association, all of us, who advocate urgent action, charlatans. In his rant, he berated Europe for its transition to green energy, saying it leads to high costs, which would kill growth. He dismissed the science of climate change and went on to say that coal was clean. But I am not writing this to demean your intelligence and to explain why Mr Trump is wrong. We know the reality of climate change as extreme weather events tear across our world, bringing with them economic devastation and human tragedy. The question is, who was Mr Trump really addressing when he spoke at the UN General Assembly (UNGA)? I believe this is what we must discuss. He was not speaking to the leaders in the grand room; he was not even speaking to the likes of you or me. He was speaking directly to the large numbers of ordinary middle- and working-class people, both in the rich world and the to-be-rich world, who believe that they have been cheated and deprived in the globalised economy. In their minds — and Mr Trump would like to ensure that this message is stamped — the problem is the “invasion” of immigrants, who they see as taking away livelihoods. It is about governments that are weak and allowing this to happen with impunity. It is then linked to the higher cost of living, declining real wages, and the cost of green transition, which Mr Trump says will lead to the downfall of the Western civilisation. Windmills, which generate cleaner power at a lower cost than conventional systems do, are blamed for driving down standards of living. He wants this message to spread across the world — particularly the West — so that it turns against the “left loonies” (his words, not mine). We must see his message at the UN as a political effort to turn people towards the “right” and away from governments that believe in social justice and climate action. Let us also be clear that there is deep resentment in the Western world, which was the architect of the free-trade globalisation regime and led economic growth. Mr Trump is taking it all to a boil so that he can bring about changes in the politics of the West — at least where there is still commitment to the change the world so desperately needs. He wants those governments to fail so that the parties that stand against multilateralism, global solidarity, and climate action can win. This is regime change on a scale never seen before. And it is happening. Europe’s ambitious climate policy is facing headwinds. The European Commission failed to secure an agreement on the next round of emission-reduction targets. There is now increased resistance to these policies, and it is no surprise that there is a growing shift towards parties that eschew climate change, much like Mr Trump does. The US President wants to accelerate this movement so that the world aligns with his side of the divide. Climate change has become a pawn in this political game, which is driven by hard economic interests in the business of energy and much more. Mr Trump needs to label and dismiss the climate agenda as the work of “radical left loonies”. This means that anyone who believes in the existential crisis caused by climate change, or even the need to clean up pollution from energy systems, is part of this “woke” brigade. It makes the rest of society take sides — and this is what happened during the pandemic or even when the United Kingdom (UK) voted to leave the European Union (EU). It makes the issue toxic and makes it about the elite versus the rest. Worse, it demonises science and experts, and portrays them as out of touch with the painful realities of ordinary people. We must fight this branding because it does far more damage than Mr Trump’s words of insult. For instance, we know as environmentalists in countries like India how such labelling can undermine our message and work. When we are called anti-development, it detracts from the fact that environment and development are two sides of the same coin. This is why we have carefully and deliberately worked to ensure that climate-change policies are part of the development strategies in our countries. For us, it makes sense to find pathways to economic growth that come without pollution. We know this. And we also understand that in our divided and unequal world, sticks and stones may break bones. It can destroy our common home, our planet Earth. So, let’s not dismiss this address to the world as just another Trump rant. It is a carefully crafted strategy to destroy the very “rightness” of the idea of climate change. The author is at the Centre for Science and Environment. sunita@cseindia.org, X: @sunitanar

Punjab Powers Ahead with ₹641-Crore Nabha Power Green Energy Project in Patiala

The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, is setting new precedents in the field of clean energy. By making clean energy the keystone of the state's development, the government is protecting the environment and creating employment opportunities for millions of youth. To this end, Nabha Power Limited's (NPL) ₹641 crore power generation project is a shining star in Punjab's green revolution. This project will bring affordable, clean electricity and 500 jobs, ensuring a clean and prosperous future for Punjab. With recently launched initiatives, Punjab is rapidly progressing towards achieving clean energy capacity, which will ensure the state's economic strength and sustained growth. Nabha Power Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Larsen & Toubro (L&T), has embarked on an ambitious plan to convert its 1,400 MW thermal power plant in Rajpura, Patiala, to a hybrid model with solar energy. This ₹641 crore project will integrate solar energy with a thermal plant, reducing pollution by 15 percent and protecting the environment. The project will create 500 new jobs, with priority given to local youth. The project will operate under a 25-year power purchase agreement with the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL), providing affordable and clean electricity to Punjab. The project will be commissioned by December 2025 and completed in phases by 2026, significantly increasing Punjab's renewable energy capacity. This Nabha Power project will significantly strengthen the state's industrial system. The Rajpura thermal plant already meets a significant portion of Punjab's electricity needs, providing 40 percent of its electricity needs during the off-peak season and 20 percent during the peak season. The integration of solar energy will further improve the plant's environmental sustainability. In 2025, the Central Government's Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) awarded NPL an award for environmental protection, demonstrating its green commitment. This project strengthens Punjab's clean energy initiatives, highlighting the strength of the country's domestic investment and Indian multinational companies.