Delhi-NCR's air quality: Minister clarifies AQI statement

India Dec 24, 2025

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav recently clarified his earlier claim in Parliament that, up to that point, Delhi-NCR had not seen any days with an Air Quality Index (AQI) over 450 this year.
Turns out, official data showed AQI levels did cross 450 in mid-December—Delhi hit 461, and Noida saw similar spikes.

What's behind the pollution—and what's being done?

Yadav explained his statement was accurate until December's spike and pointed out that pollution mainly comes from vehicles, factories, and poor waste management.
He said the government is stepping up efforts by getting regional authorities to work together through new laws, aiming to tackle severe pollution and help improve the air for everyone in the region.