On November 23, 2025, Delhi's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) remained in the 'Very Poor' category at 391, as recorded by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), continuing a sustained period of hazardous winter smog blanketing the National Capital Region (NCR). The primary pollutants — PM2.5 and PM10 — were driven by a combination of vehicular emissions, stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, industrial activity, and unfavourable meteorological conditions (low wind speed, temperature inversion). Delhi recorded zero 'Good' AQI days in 2025 — the worst year in recent memory by this measure. The Supreme Court-mandated Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage III and IV restrictions were in force, including bans on construction activities, entry of heavy vehicles, and diesel generators. India's 2025 Union Budget had allocated ₹10,000 crore under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) for 131 non-attainment cities. Rajasthan's major urban centres — Jodhpur (cement dust), Jaipur (vehicular and construction), and Kota (industrial) — are also classified as 'non-attainment cities' under NCAP, requiring strict pollution reduction targets by 2026.
Delhi AQI Remains 'Very Poor' at 391: India's Urban Air Pollution Crisis and Policy Response
On November 23, 2025, Delhi's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) remained in the 'Very Poor' category at 391, as recorded by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), continuing a sustained period of hazardous winter smog blanketing the National Capital Region (NCR). The primary pollutants — PM2.5 and PM10 — were driven by a combination of vehicular emissions, stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, industrial activity, and unfavourable meteorological conditions (low wind speed, temperature inversion). Delhi recorded zero 'Good' AQI days in 2025 — the worst year in recent memory by this measure. The Supreme Court-mandated Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage III and IV restrictions were in force, including bans on construction activities, entry of heavy vehicles, and diesel generators. India's 2025 Union Budget had allocated ₹10,000 crore under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) for 131 non-attainment cities. Rajasthan's major urban centres — Jodhpur (cement dust), Jaipur (vehicular and construction), and Kota (industrial) — are also classified as 'non-attainment cities' under NCAP, requiring strict pollution reduction targets by 2026.
Key facts
- Delhi's AQI remained at 381 ('Very Poor') on November 23 as recorded by CPCB.
- Delhi recorded zero 'Good' AQI days in 2025, the worst year by this measure.
- Primary pollutants PM2.5 and PM10 driven by stubble burning, vehicles, and industry.
- GRAP Stage III and IV restrictions including construction bans were in force.
- Union Budget 2025 allocated ₹10,000 crore under NCAP for 131 non-attainment cities.
- Rajasthan's Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Kota are classified as NCAP non-attainment cities.
6-axis classification
Appears in these topics
Practice MCQ from this story
SolveTap an option below. Correct or incorrect feedback appears instantly.
Which body monitors and records the Air Quality Index (AQI) in India?
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, monitors and records the Air Quality Index (AQI) across Indian cities.
Source: PIB
Frequently asked questions
What is the Air Quality Index (AQI) and what category is 'Very Poor'?
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a standardised scale used by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to measure and communicate daily air quality. An AQI between 301–400 falls in the 'Very Poor' category, indicating significant health risk; Delhi recorded AQI 381 on November 23, 2025.
What are the primary causes of Delhi's severe air pollution in winter?
Delhi's winter air pollution is caused by a combination of stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, vehicular emissions, industrial activity, and unfavourable meteorological conditions such as low wind speed and temperature inversion. PM2.5 and PM10 are the primary pollutants measured.
What is GRAP and what restrictions does it impose?
GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) is an emergency framework for controlling air pollution in Delhi-NCR. Under GRAP Stage III and IV, construction bans and other restrictions are imposed; the more severe Stage IV can include banning trucks and certain vehicles from entering Delhi.
What is NCAP and which Rajasthan cities are classified as non-attainment cities?
NCAP (National Clean Air Programme) targets reducing PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations in 131 non-attainment cities that consistently fail to meet national air quality standards. Union Budget 2025 allocated ₹10,000 crore under NCAP; Rajasthan's Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Kota are classified as NCAP non-attainment cities.
What record did Delhi set regarding AQI in 2025?
Delhi recorded zero 'Good' AQI days (AQI 0–50) in 2025, making it the worst year by this measure. This reflects the persistent nature of Delhi's air quality crisis driven by structural pollution sources and seasonal factors.
Was this useful?
Share corrections or missing exam angles with the editorial team.
Send feedback