The torrential downpour witnessed in Delhi has brought the much-needed respite from toxic air, as air quality improved sharply for the first time in the New Year.

The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of the national capital was docking at 85 in the morning, ranging in the 'satisfactory' category, for the first time in a span of four months, after a long period of oscillation between 'poor' and 'hazardous' categories.

The minimum and maximum temperature in Delhi will hover around 10 degrees Celsius and 19 degrees Celsius, respectively.

Moderate fog will prevail throughout the region with wind speed 10 kilometres per hour and humidity 96 per cent.

Due to foggy weather, as many as 21 trains were rescheduled after getting delayed for at least by 2 hrs.

Ranchi-new Delhi Garib rath, Islampur-New Delhi -Magadh Express, Vaishali Express were delayed by 2:30 hours each.

Puri-New Delhi Purushottam Express, Darbhanga Delhi Bihar S Kranti, Howrah-New Delhi- Poorva and Azamgarh-Delhi Kaifiyat Express were delayed by 6 hours, 4 hours, 3:30 hours and 2:30 hours, respectively.

The region witnessed a spike in pollution levels during the winter when weather conditions lead to the trapping of pollutants near the surface, and crop residue burning adds to the menace.

According to Mahesh Palawat, VP-Meteorology, Skymet Weather, "Widespread rains were not limited to Delhi but to entire northwestern plains. Thus, pollutants have settled down all over the places. Thus, any immediate spike in air pollution is not likely. With these rains moderate in nature, they would not let pollutants settle down. Also, we are not expecting any weather system in quick succession that could change the wind pattern. For the next couple of days, air quality would continue to juggle between 'satisfactory' and 'moderate' pollution levels. Although rains would fade away in the next 48 hours, the national capital region (NCR) will witness northwesterly winds thereafter."

The torrential downpour witnessed in Delhi has brought the much-needed respite from toxic air, as air quality improved sharply for the first time in the New Year.

The torrential downpour witnessed in Delhi has brought the much-needed respite from toxic air, as air quality improved sharply for the first time in the New Year. The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of the national capital was docking at 85 in the morning, ranging in the 'satisfactory' category, for the first time in a span of four months, after a long period of oscillation between 'poor' and 'hazardous' categories. The minimum and maximum temperature in Delhi will hover around 10 degrees Celsius and 19 degrees Celsius, respectively. Moderate fog will prevail throughout the region with wind speed 10 kilometres per hour and humidity 96 per cent. Due to foggy weather, as many as 21 trains were rescheduled after getting delayed for at least by 2 hrs. Ranchi-new Delhi Garib rath, Islampur-New Delhi -Magadh Express, Vaishali Express were delayed by 2:30 hours each. Puri-New Delhi Purushottam Express, Darbhanga Delhi Bihar S Kranti, Howrah-New Delhi- Poorva and Azamgarh-Delhi Kaifiyat Express were delayed by 6 hours, 4 hours, 3:30 hours and 2:30 hours, respectively. The region witnessed a spike in pollution levels during the winter when weather conditions lead to the trapping of pollutants near the surface, and crop residue burning adds to the menace. According to Mahesh Palawat, VP-Meteorology, Skymet Weather, "Widespread rains were not limited to Delhi but to entire northwestern plains. Thus, pollutants have settled down all over the places. Thus, any immediate spike in air pollution is not likely. With these rains moderate in nature, they would not let pollutants settle down. Also, we are not expecting any weather system in quick succession that could change the wind pattern. For the next couple of days, air quality would continue to juggle between 'satisfactory' and 'moderate' pollution levels. Although rains would fade away in the next 48 hours, the national capital region (NCR) will witness northwesterly winds thereafter."

Delhi's air quality 'satisfactory' for first time in 2019

There is no respite yet for common citizens as prices of fuel and diesel saw a fresh hike on Wednesday.

Petrol is now being sold 13 paise higher at Rs&nbsp;71.27 per litre and diesel at Rs&nbsp;65.90 per litre after a 19 paise hike in New Delhi.

In Mumbai, petrol is retailing at Rs&nbsp;76.90 per litre after an increase of 13 paise and diesel is being sold at Rs&nbsp;69.01 per litre after a 2 paise hike in its price.

The price revision comes amidst a global dip in the price of crude oil.

Analysts say the prices of crude were down owing to a reduction in the global economic growth forecast which triggered concerns over demand for oil in the coming weeks.

There is no respite yet for common citizens as prices of fuel and diesel saw a fresh hike on Wednesday. Petrol is now being sold 13 paise higher at Rs 71.27 per litre and diesel at Rs 65.

There is no respite yet for common citizens as prices of fuel and diesel saw a fresh hike on Wednesday. Petrol is now being sold 13 paise higher at Rs 71.27 per litre and diesel at Rs 65.90 per litre after a 19 paise hike in New Delhi. In Mumbai, petrol is retailing at Rs 76.90 per litre after an increase of 13 paise and diesel is being sold at Rs 69.01 per litre after a 2 paise hike in its price. The price revision comes amidst a global dip in the price of crude oil. Analysts say the prices of crude were down owing to a reduction in the global economic growth forecast which triggered concerns over demand for oil in the coming weeks.

No respite from surging fuel prices, petrol crosses Rs 71 per litre in Delhi

Delhi and its satellite cities of Noida and Gurgaon were hit by rain early Tuesday morning. The capital has been getting spells of winter rain since Monday afternoon.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Delhi and Gurgaon were also hit by hail.&nbsp;

As usually happens, the rains also led to traffic snarls.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Rain and hailstorm lashes Delhi's Subash Nagar <a href="https://t.co/lOtiWXJqzB">pic.twitter.com/lOtiWXJqzB</a>
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Heavy rains in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> leads to traffic congestion in parts of the national capital; Visuals from IP Estate area <a href="https://t.co/8hP9qOgELe">pic.twitter.com/8hP9qOgELe</a>
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The Met Department had earlier predicted cloudy skies with light rains, and a minimum and maximum temperature of about 9 and 21 degrees Celsius respectively.&nbsp;

The Met had also warned of “another Western Disturbance" which will affect Northwest India from January 24 onwards.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

Delhi and its satellite cities of Noida and Gurgaon were hit by rain early Tuesday morning. The capital has been getting spells of winter rain since Monday afternoon.

Delhi and its satellite cities of Noida and Gurgaon were hit by rain early Tuesday morning. The capital has been getting spells of winter rain since Monday afternoon. On Tuesday, Delhi and Gurgaon were also hit by hail. As usually happens, the rains also led to traffic snarls. #WATCH Rain and hailstorm lashes Delhi's Subash Nagar pic.twitter.com/lOtiWXJqzB — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2019 × #WATCH Haryana: Rainfall and hailstorm lashes Gurugram. pic.twitter.com/mLd5LpJVO9 — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2019 × Heavy rains in #Delhi leads to traffic congestion in parts of the national capital; Visuals from IP Estate area pic.twitter.com/8hP9qOgELe — ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2019 × The Met Department had earlier predicted cloudy skies with light rains, and a minimum and maximum temperature of about 9 and 21 degrees Celsius respectively. The Met had also warned of “another Western Disturbance" which will affect Northwest India from January 24 onwards. (With inputs from ANI)

Delhi hit by rain & hail Tuesday morning, trafffic snarls follow

Delhi is expected to witness another spell of winter rains on Tuesday.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted cloudy sky with light rain or drizzle.

There will gusty winds through the day with the minimum and maximum temperature likely to be around 9 and 21 degrees Celsius respectively. The capital and its neighbouring areas have been witnessing a sudden spell of rains accompanied by thundershowers post-Monday afternoon. The showers continued during evening and night leading to a drop in temperature.

“Another Western Disturbance would affect Northwest India from January 24 onwards,” warned the IMD.

Delhi received the wet spell on Monday due to western disturbances, said the IMD. On Monday, the national capital received rains, a day after recording the warmest January day since 2012 on Sunday.

The maximum temperature settled at 28.7 degrees Celsius on Sunday, seven notches above the season's average.

The prevailing situation is a result of active western disturbance, the IMD said.

On Monday, Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 11 degrees Celsius while the maximum was 20 degrees Celsius.

"Generally cloudy conditions with light to moderate rainfall at most places and isolated thunderstorm activity accompanied with strong surface winds most likely during January 21 and 22," the weather department said.

The sudden spell of showers on Monday led to a slow movement in traffic.

People returning home from work had to witness slow traffic movement.

The Safdarjung observatory recorded 1.2 mm rainfall between 8.30 am and 5.30 pm, while Palam recorded 2.8mm, Lodhi Road 0.8mm, Ridge area 0.6mm and Ayanagar 0.6mm rainfall respectively.

Delhi is expected to witness another spell of winter rains on Tuesday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted cloudy sky with light rain or drizzle.

Delhi is expected to witness another spell of winter rains on Tuesday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted cloudy sky with light rain or drizzle. There will gusty winds through the day with the minimum and maximum temperature likely to be around 9 and 21 degrees Celsius respectively. The capital and its neighbouring areas have been witnessing a sudden spell of rains accompanied by thundershowers post-Monday afternoon. The showers continued during evening and night leading to a drop in temperature. “Another Western Disturbance would affect Northwest India from January 24 onwards,” warned the IMD. Delhi received the wet spell on Monday due to western disturbances, said the IMD. On Monday, the national capital received rains, a day after recording the warmest January day since 2012 on Sunday. The maximum temperature settled at 28.7 degrees Celsius on Sunday, seven notches above the season's average. The prevailing situation is a result of active western disturbance, the IMD said. On Monday, Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 11 degrees Celsius while the maximum was 20 degrees Celsius. "Generally cloudy conditions with light to moderate rainfall at most places and isolated thunderstorm activity accompanied with strong surface winds most likely during January 21 and 22," the weather department said. The sudden spell of showers on Monday led to a slow movement in traffic. People returning home from work had to witness slow traffic movement. The Safdarjung observatory recorded 1.2 mm rainfall between 8.30 am and 5.30 pm, while Palam recorded 2.8mm, Lodhi Road 0.8mm, Ridge area 0.6mm and Ayanagar 0.6mm rainfall respectively.

Delhi to witness another spell of rain today

A Delhi court Tuesday issued production warrant for January 28 against former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case.

District Judge Poonam A Bamba issued production warrant against Kumar after Tihar Jail authorities, where he is lodged after conviction in another case related to the riots, could not produce him today.&nbsp;

In the case before the trial court, three persons -- Kumar, Brahmanand Gupta and Ved Prakash -- are facing trial on charges of murder and rioting pertaining to the killing of Surjit Singh in Sultanpuri.&nbsp;

The riots broke out after the assassination of then prime minister Indira Gandhi by her Sikh bodyguards on October 31, 1984.

The witness, Cham Kaur, had on November 16 last year identified Kumar before the court as one who had allegedly instigated the mob to kill Sikhs. 
Kaur had told the court that she had seen Kumar allegedly addressing a crowd in the national capital's Sultanpuri area in 1984.

"On November 1, 1984, when I stepped out to look for my goat, I saw accused Sajjan Kumar addressing the crowd and saying 'hamari ma maar di, Sardaro ko maar do' (They killed our mother, kill the Sikhs)," Kaur had told the court.

She further said the next morning, her son and father were killed.

"My son Kapoor Singh and my father Sardarji Singh were pulled out of the hiding place on the second floor, beaten badly and thrown down from the roof," Kaur had said, adding, she also received injuries in the attack.

Before Kaur, another key prosecution witness Sheela Kaur identified Kumar as one who had instigated a crowd in Sultanpuri.

The case was transferred from the Karkardooma court to the Patiala House court here by the Delhi High Court, which had directed the district judge to video record the proceedings at the cost of the accused.

Kumar and two other accused -- Brahmanand Gupta and Ved Prakash -- had said that they were ready to bear the expenses of the videography of proceedings.

The proceedings in the case were earlier stayed after the complainant Joginder Singh approached the high court seeking transfer of the case while alleging that evidence was not being properly recorded.

The Delhi High Court had on December 17 convicted Kumar and sentenced him to imprisonment for "remainder of his natural life" in another 1984 anti-Sikh riots case, saying the riots were a "crime against humanity" perpetrated by those who enjoyed "political patronage" and aided by an "indifferent" law enforcement agency.&nbsp;

A Delhi court Tuesday issued production warrant for January 28 against former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case. District Judge Poonam A Bamba issued production warrant against Kumar after Tihar Jail authorities, where he is lodged after conviction in another case related to the riots, could not produce him today.

A Delhi court Tuesday issued production warrant for January 28 against former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case. District Judge Poonam A Bamba issued production warrant against Kumar after Tihar Jail authorities, where he is lodged after conviction in another case related to the riots, could not produce him today. In the case before the trial court, three persons -- Kumar, Brahmanand Gupta and Ved Prakash -- are facing trial on charges of murder and rioting pertaining to the killing of Surjit Singh in Sultanpuri. The riots broke out after the assassination of then prime minister Indira Gandhi by her Sikh bodyguards on October 31, 1984. The witness, Cham Kaur, had on November 16 last year identified Kumar before the court as one who had allegedly instigated the mob to kill Sikhs. Kaur had told the court that she had seen Kumar allegedly addressing a crowd in the national capital's Sultanpuri area in 1984. "On November 1, 1984, when I stepped out to look for my goat, I saw accused Sajjan Kumar addressing the crowd and saying 'hamari ma maar di, Sardaro ko maar do' (They killed our mother, kill the Sikhs)," Kaur had told the court. She further said the next morning, her son and father were killed. "My son Kapoor Singh and my father Sardarji Singh were pulled out of the hiding place on the second floor, beaten badly and thrown down from the roof," Kaur had said, adding, she also received injuries in the attack. Before Kaur, another key prosecution witness Sheela Kaur identified Kumar as one who had instigated a crowd in Sultanpuri. The case was transferred from the Karkardooma court to the Patiala House court here by the Delhi High Court, which had directed the district judge to video record the proceedings at the cost of the accused. Kumar and two other accused -- Brahmanand Gupta and Ved Prakash -- had said that they were ready to bear the expenses of the videography of proceedings. The proceedings in the case were earlier stayed after the complainant Joginder Singh approached the high court seeking transfer of the case while alleging that evidence was not being properly recorded. The Delhi High Court had on December 17 convicted Kumar and sentenced him to imprisonment for "remainder of his natural life" in another 1984 anti-Sikh riots case, saying the riots were a "crime against humanity" perpetrated by those who enjoyed "political patronage" and aided by an "indifferent" law enforcement agency.

1984 anti-Sikh riots: Delhi court issues production warrant against Sajjan Kumar

Petrol prices on Sunday in the national capital and in Mumbai rose by Rs 0.23 at Rs 70.95 per litre and Rs 76.58 respectively.&nbsp;

Diesel, on the other hand, was selling for Rs 65.45 per litre - up by Rs 0.29 - in Delhi. A litre of diesel is selling for Rs 68.53, up by Rs. 0.31, in Mumbai.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fresh-hike-in-fuel-prices-on-saturday-191380">Fuel prices witnessed a fresh hike on Saturday</a>, adding to commuters' woes.

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Petrol and diesel prices at Rs 70.95/litre (increase by Rs 0.23) &amp; Rs 65.45/litre (increase by Rs. 0.29), respectively in Delhi. Petrol and diesel prices at Rs 76.58/litre (increase by Rs. 0.23) &amp; Rs 68.53/litre (increase by Rs. 0.31), respectively in Mumbai. <a href="https://t.co/qra9C6i9wQ">pic.twitter.com/qra9C6i9wQ</a>
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In New Delhi, petrol was being sold 17 paise higher at Rs 70.72/litre, and diesel at Rs 65.16/litre after a 19 paise hike.

Also, petrol was retailing at Rs 76.35/litre (increased by 17 paise) and diesel at Rs. 68.22/litre (increased by 20 paise) in Mumbai on Saturday.

The rise in prices comes amidst the revision of global crude oil prices owing to a possible stifling of supply in the near future.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Petrol prices on Sunday in the national capital and in Mumbai rose by Rs 0.23 at Rs 70.95 per litre and Rs 76.58 respectively. Diesel, on the other hand, was selling for Rs 65.

Petrol prices on Sunday in the national capital and in Mumbai rose by Rs 0.23 at Rs 70.95 per litre and Rs 76.58 respectively. Diesel, on the other hand, was selling for Rs 65.45 per litre - up by Rs 0.29 - in Delhi. A litre of diesel is selling for Rs 68.53, up by Rs. 0.31, in Mumbai. Fuel prices witnessed a fresh hike on Saturday, adding to commuters' woes. Petrol and diesel prices at Rs 70.95/litre (increase by Rs 0.23) & Rs 65.45/litre (increase by Rs. 0.29), respectively in Delhi. Petrol and diesel prices at Rs 76.58/litre (increase by Rs. 0.23) & Rs 68.53/litre (increase by Rs. 0.31), respectively in Mumbai. pic.twitter.com/qra9C6i9wQ — ANI (@ANI) January 20, 2019 × In New Delhi, petrol was being sold 17 paise higher at Rs 70.72/litre, and diesel at Rs 65.16/litre after a 19 paise hike. Also, petrol was retailing at Rs 76.35/litre (increased by 17 paise) and diesel at Rs. 68.22/litre (increased by 20 paise) in Mumbai on Saturday. The rise in prices comes amidst the revision of global crude oil prices owing to a possible stifling of supply in the near future. (With inputs from ANI)

Fuel prices continue to rise, petrol up by 23 paise in Delhi, Mumbai

About&nbsp;93 per cent of Delhiites do not understand the Air Quality Index and its six categories, a survey of 10 most polluted areas of Delhi revealed on Friday.

Conducted by the United Residents Joint Action (URJA), a collective of the city's resident welfare associations and ARK foundation, the survey interacted with 509 residents from Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, Dwarka, ITO, Lodhi Road, Patparganj, Rohini, R K Puram, Siri Fort, and Bawana.

The respondents -- minimum 50 people each from the 10 localities -- did not know the meaning of AQI and when the air in the national capital is categorised as good, moderate, poor or severe.

The survey showed that 89 per cent of the respondents were not aware about the air pollution monitors installed in their areas.

The questionnaire was given across the wards spread in a two-km radius around the identified locations where air quality monitors have been installed.

Eighty-eight per cent of the respondents said that they had not seen any LED screens showing the different levels of air quality, the survey said, adding that 71 per cent of the respondents were not satisfied with the air quality in Delhi.

While 58 per cent respondents said that they were affected by pollution, 42 per cent said they were unaffected.

Further, 28 per cent people admitted to facing difficulty in breathing due to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/better-not-to-be-in-delhi-it-is-like-a-gas-chamber-supreme-court-191301">poor quality of air</a> and 20 per cent said that they were take extra care of their skin.&nbsp;

Another 16 per cent said they felt depressed due to the blanket of smog enveloping the national capital.

The questionnaire asked the respondents a mix of closed-ended and open-ended questions.&nbsp;

About 93 per cent of Delhiites do not understand the Air Quality Index and its six categories, a survey of 10 most polluted areas of Delhi revealed on Friday. Conducted by the United Residents Joint Action (URJA), a collective of the city's resident welfare associations and ARK foundation, the survey interacted with 509 residents from Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, Dwarka, ITO, Lodhi Road, Patparganj, Rohini, R K Puram, Siri Fort, and Bawana.

About 93 per cent of Delhiites do not understand the Air Quality Index and its six categories, a survey of 10 most polluted areas of Delhi revealed on Friday. Conducted by the United Residents Joint Action (URJA), a collective of the city's resident welfare associations and ARK foundation, the survey interacted with 509 residents from Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, Dwarka, ITO, Lodhi Road, Patparganj, Rohini, R K Puram, Siri Fort, and Bawana. The respondents -- minimum 50 people each from the 10 localities -- did not know the meaning of AQI and when the air in the national capital is categorised as good, moderate, poor or severe. The survey showed that 89 per cent of the respondents were not aware about the air pollution monitors installed in their areas. The questionnaire was given across the wards spread in a two-km radius around the identified locations where air quality monitors have been installed. Eighty-eight per cent of the respondents said that they had not seen any LED screens showing the different levels of air quality, the survey said, adding that 71 per cent of the respondents were not satisfied with the air quality in Delhi. While 58 per cent respondents said that they were affected by pollution, 42 per cent said they were unaffected. Further, 28 per cent people admitted to facing difficulty in breathing due to poor quality of air and 20 per cent said that they were take extra care of their skin. Another 16 per cent said they felt depressed due to the blanket of smog enveloping the national capital. The questionnaire asked the respondents a mix of closed-ended and open-ended questions.

93% Delhiites don't know what AQI means: Report

Neurotoxins in Delhi, Gurugram air can cause brain damage: Study

Delhiites woke up to a cold morning under clear skies with the minimum temperature settling at 8 degrees Celsius, a notch above the season's average.

The humidity was recorded at 77 per cent at 8.30 AM, said a Met department official.

Visibility was recorded at 3,000 metres both at 5.30 AM and 8.30 AM.

The Met office has forecast clear skies for the day ahead.

"The maximum temperature is likely to hover around 21 degrees," the weatherman said.

On Sunday, the maximum and minimum temperatures settled at 23.5 and 8.5 degrees respectively.

Delhiites woke up to a cold morning under clear skies with the minimum temperature settling at 8 degrees Celsius, a notch above the season's average. The humidity was recorded at 77 per cent at 8.

Delhiites woke up to a cold morning under clear skies with the minimum temperature settling at 8 degrees Celsius, a notch above the season's average. The humidity was recorded at 77 per cent at 8.30 AM, said a Met department official. Visibility was recorded at 3,000 metres both at 5.30 AM and 8.30 AM. The Met office has forecast clear skies for the day ahead. "The maximum temperature is likely to hover around 21 degrees," the weatherman said. On Sunday, the maximum and minimum temperatures settled at 23.5 and 8.5 degrees respectively.

Cold morning in Delhi, minimum temperature at 8 degrees Celsius

Delhi's air quality deteriorated to the 'severe' category Friday due to reduced wind speed even as authorities have forecast rainfall in the next couple of days which they said might lower the pollution level.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, the overall air quality index (AQI) in the city was 402, which falls in the 'severe' category.

An AQI between 100 and 200 comes under the 'moderate' category, 201 and 300 is considered 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', while that between 401 and 500 'severe'.

Twenty-two areas recorded 'severe' air quality and 13 'very poor', the CPCB said.

In the National Capital Region (NCR), Ghaziabad, Faridabad and Greater Noida recorded 'severe' air quality, while Gurgaon 'very poor' air quality, it said.

The overall PM2.5 level - fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres - in Delhi was recorded at 278, while the PM10 level was at 430, it said.

The Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) said the air quality may improve in the next two days under the influence of light rains which is expected thereafter.

"The overall air quality will deteriorate further, with small fluctuations in the next three days if it does not rain. Other meteorological conditions are not favourable although foggy conditions are likely to reduce now," the SAFAR said.

Delhi's air quality was recorded in the 'poor' category Wednesday and Thursday with increased wind speed which helps in cleansing the air before slipping into 'very poor' category on Friday morning before nosediving towards severe pollution level.

Delhi's air quality deteriorated to the 'severe' category Friday due to reduced wind speed even as authorities have forecast rainfall in the next couple of days which they said might lower the pollution level.

Delhi's air quality deteriorated to the 'severe' category Friday due to reduced wind speed even as authorities have forecast rainfall in the next couple of days which they said might lower the pollution level. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, the overall air quality index (AQI) in the city was 402, which falls in the 'severe' category. An AQI between 100 and 200 comes under the 'moderate' category, 201 and 300 is considered 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', while that between 401 and 500 'severe'. Twenty-two areas recorded 'severe' air quality and 13 'very poor', the CPCB said. In the National Capital Region (NCR), Ghaziabad, Faridabad and Greater Noida recorded 'severe' air quality, while Gurgaon 'very poor' air quality, it said. The overall PM2.5 level - fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres - in Delhi was recorded at 278, while the PM10 level was at 430, it said. The Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) said the air quality may improve in the next two days under the influence of light rains which is expected thereafter. "The overall air quality will deteriorate further, with small fluctuations in the next three days if it does not rain. Other meteorological conditions are not favourable although foggy conditions are likely to reduce now," the SAFAR said. Delhi's air quality was recorded in the 'poor' category Wednesday and Thursday with increased wind speed which helps in cleansing the air before slipping into 'very poor' category on Friday morning before nosediving towards severe pollution level.

Delhi's air quality deteriorates to 'severe' category

Indian govt unveils National Clean Air Programme to combat air pollution

The JNU administration on Monday said they have sought clarification from <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/things-at-university-comically-bad-jnu-professor-188507">Professor Kavita Singh</a>, who has alleged her leave to receive the Infosys Prize had been denied by the varsity's vice chancellor.

Professor Chintamani Mahapatra, Rector-I of the varsity, said, "Certain kind of leaves are not a right. In many cases, professors apply late at night or after 5.30 pm when the office closes. She had applied for vacation leave/casual leave and on Monday, we wrote to her to clarify on the kind of leave."

Singh, however, said university staff have the option of applying for combination leaves and that is what she did.

"We have an e-office system where we can apply for leaves. It has dropdown menus and I had applied for vacation/casual leave around lunchtime on January 2. The next day, when I was in Bengaluru, I received an e-mail saying my leave had been rejected," she said.

She said that casual leave is a right and she did not apply for duty leave since it is an "entitlement" and her earlier duty leave applications had been rejected.

"Since I did not want the thing to be disputed, I applied for combination leave. On Monday, when I came back to office, I checked the e-office system and I saw the vice-chancellor's remarks on the leave cancellation and they read 'leave is granted subject to marking of attendance'," she said.

The JNU Teachers' Association and the administration has been at loggerheads over the issue of compulsory attendance, with the teachers alleging punitive actions have been taken against them for failing to comply with attendance rules.

Mahapatra said marking attendance is "only a matter of accountability" and even the University Grants Commission has said teachers should remain present in their respective offices for at least five hours each working day.

"If the teachers are coming what is the harm in signing a register. There were complaints from some students who said they were not able to meet teachers," he added.

All schools and special centres will shortly have biometric attendance system, he said.

The JNU administration on Monday said they have sought clarification from Professor Kavita Singh, who has alleged her leave to receive the Infosys Prize had been denied by the varsity's vice chancellor.

The JNU administration on Monday said they have sought clarification from Professor Kavita Singh, who has alleged her leave to receive the Infosys Prize had been denied by the varsity's vice chancellor. Professor Chintamani Mahapatra, Rector-I of the varsity, said, "Certain kind of leaves are not a right. In many cases, professors apply late at night or after 5.30 pm when the office closes. She had applied for vacation leave/casual leave and on Monday, we wrote to her to clarify on the kind of leave." Singh, however, said university staff have the option of applying for combination leaves and that is what she did. "We have an e-office system where we can apply for leaves. It has dropdown menus and I had applied for vacation/casual leave around lunchtime on January 2. The next day, when I was in Bengaluru, I received an e-mail saying my leave had been rejected," she said. She said that casual leave is a right and she did not apply for duty leave since it is an "entitlement" and her earlier duty leave applications had been rejected. "Since I did not want the thing to be disputed, I applied for combination leave. On Monday, when I came back to office, I checked the e-office system and I saw the vice-chancellor's remarks on the leave cancellation and they read 'leave is granted subject to marking of attendance'," she said. The JNU Teachers' Association and the administration has been at loggerheads over the issue of compulsory attendance, with the teachers alleging punitive actions have been taken against them for failing to comply with attendance rules. Mahapatra said marking attendance is "only a matter of accountability" and even the University Grants Commission has said teachers should remain present in their respective offices for at least five hours each working day. "If the teachers are coming what is the harm in signing a register. There were complaints from some students who said they were not able to meet teachers," he added. All schools and special centres will shortly have biometric attendance system, he said.

JNU seeks clarification from professor who alleged VC denied her leave to receive award

Jawahar Lal University (JNU) professor and the winner of Infosys Prize 2018 Kavita Singh landed here, only to get to know that her leave application to attend the award ceremony was rejected by the JNU vice-chancellor.

Reacting to the development, she said things at the university were "comically bad".

Singh got to know about the rejection of her leave application only after she landed in Bengaluru to attend the event organised by the Infosys Science Foundation (ISF). She received the award on Saturday night.

Speaking after receiving the award, Singh thanked the JNU, where she has been teaching for 17 years, and said until recently, it was "a very congenial and supportive place".

"We never had much money or facilities, but we had excellent colleagues and academic freedom. Today, things are bad; things are comically bad in my institutional home."

"How bad you may ask? After I came to Bengaluru, I checked my e-mail and found that the leave application I had put in to come here and receive the award had been rejected by my vice-chancellor. So please be warned that my presence on this stage today is illegitimate," she said.

Singh is a professor and the Dean of the School of Arts and Aesthetics at the JNU in New Delhi.

She received the Infosys Science Prize for her study of Mughal, Rajput and Deccan art.

Singh's work shows the significance of museums in highlighting the social impact of art and thereby, relates visual culture to large contemporary questions of secularity, modernity and political conflict.

The ISF honoured six eminent professors for winning the Infosys Prize 2018 across different categories of science and research at an awards ceremony here on Saturday night, while also celebrating its 10th-year milestone.

The annual award includes a pure gold medal, a citation and a prize purse worth $100,000 (or its equivalent in Indian rupees).

A six-member jury of renowned scientists and professors selected the winners from 244 nominations received in six categories.

Jawahar Lal University (JNU) professor and the winner of Infosys Prize 2018 Kavita Singh landed here, only to get to know that her leave application to attend the award ceremony was rejected by the JNU vice-chancellor.

Jawahar Lal University (JNU) professor and the winner of Infosys Prize 2018 Kavita Singh landed here, only to get to know that her leave application to attend the award ceremony was rejected by the JNU vice-chancellor. Reacting to the development, she said things at the university were "comically bad". Singh got to know about the rejection of her leave application only after she landed in Bengaluru to attend the event organised by the Infosys Science Foundation (ISF). She received the award on Saturday night. Speaking after receiving the award, Singh thanked the JNU, where she has been teaching for 17 years, and said until recently, it was "a very congenial and supportive place". "We never had much money or facilities, but we had excellent colleagues and academic freedom. Today, things are bad; things are comically bad in my institutional home." "How bad you may ask? After I came to Bengaluru, I checked my e-mail and found that the leave application I had put in to come here and receive the award had been rejected by my vice-chancellor. So please be warned that my presence on this stage today is illegitimate," she said. Singh is a professor and the Dean of the School of Arts and Aesthetics at the JNU in New Delhi. She received the Infosys Science Prize for her study of Mughal, Rajput and Deccan art. Singh's work shows the significance of museums in highlighting the social impact of art and thereby, relates visual culture to large contemporary questions of secularity, modernity and political conflict. The ISF honoured six eminent professors for winning the Infosys Prize 2018 across different categories of science and research at an awards ceremony here on Saturday night, while also celebrating its 10th-year milestone. The annual award includes a pure gold medal, a citation and a prize purse worth $100,000 (or its equivalent in Indian rupees). A six-member jury of renowned scientists and professors selected the winners from 244 nominations received in six categories.

Things at university comically bad: JNU professor

A scattered spell of rain was witnessed in parts of New Delhi on the first Sunday of the New Year, as a blanket of fog descended over the national capital.

Mild drizzle was witnessed in various parts of Delhi in the early hours of Sunday, including Rajpath and the area around Press Club of India, with the temperature hovering around 9 degrees Celcius.

As per the MET office, the minimum temperature during the day is expected to dip to 6 degrees Celcius, while the maximum temperature will be 19 degrees Celcius.

As chilly winds engulf the national capital, it has become an ordeal for the homeless. Scores of people have taken refuge at night shelters as the cold wave is set to intensify in the coming days.

Apart from the onset of severe winter, the national capital is also reeling under poor air quality levels. According to Skymet, pollution levels are in 'severely poor'&nbsp;category at present.

However, after the spell of rain and thundershower, the situation is expected to improve marginally, with pollution levels in the 'moderate'&nbsp;to 'poor'&nbsp;category. Last week, several trains arriving and departing from Delhi were delayed owing to the dense fog blanketing northern India. As many as 15 trains were delayed by over three hours.

The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) has advised individuals to avoid prolonged or heavy exertion.

"Go for a short walk instead of a jog and take more breaks. Stop any activity level if you experience any unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty, or fatigue. If the room has windows, close them. If the air conditioner provides a fresh air intake option, keep that closed. Avoid burning of wood, candles or incense. Keep the room clean - don't vacuum. Do wet mopping to reduce dust," read an advisory from the state-run agency.

A scattered spell of rain was witnessed in parts of New Delhi on the first Sunday of the New Year, as a blanket of fog descended over the national capital. Mild drizzle was witnessed in various parts of Delhi in the early hours of Sunday, including Rajpath and the area around Press Club of India, with the temperature hovering around 9 degrees Celcius.

A scattered spell of rain was witnessed in parts of New Delhi on the first Sunday of the New Year, as a blanket of fog descended over the national capital. Mild drizzle was witnessed in various parts of Delhi in the early hours of Sunday, including Rajpath and the area around Press Club of India, with the temperature hovering around 9 degrees Celcius. As per the MET office, the minimum temperature during the day is expected to dip to 6 degrees Celcius, while the maximum temperature will be 19 degrees Celcius. As chilly winds engulf the national capital, it has become an ordeal for the homeless. Scores of people have taken refuge at night shelters as the cold wave is set to intensify in the coming days. Apart from the onset of severe winter, the national capital is also reeling under poor air quality levels. According to Skymet, pollution levels are in 'severely poor' category at present. However, after the spell of rain and thundershower, the situation is expected to improve marginally, with pollution levels in the 'moderate' to 'poor' category. Last week, several trains arriving and departing from Delhi were delayed owing to the dense fog blanketing northern India. As many as 15 trains were delayed by over three hours. The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) has advised individuals to avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. "Go for a short walk instead of a jog and take more breaks. Stop any activity level if you experience any unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty, or fatigue. If the room has windows, close them. If the air conditioner provides a fresh air intake option, keep that closed. Avoid burning of wood, candles or incense. Keep the room clean - don't vacuum. Do wet mopping to reduce dust," read an advisory from the state-run agency.

Delhi witnesses scattered spell of rain, air quality remains 'poor'

It was a chilly morning in the national capital with the minimum temperature settling at 3.6 degrees Celsius, three notches below normal, a meteorological department official said.

The humidity level was recorded at 100 per cent.

The weatherman has predicted a clear day ahead with the possibility of shallow fog on Tuesday morning.

"The maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to settle around 22 and 4 degrees Celsius respectively," the official said.

On Sunday, the minimum and maximum temperatures were recorded at 3 degrees Celsius and 20 degrees Celsius respectively.&nbsp;

It was a chilly morning in the national capital with the minimum temperature settling at 3.6 degrees Celsius, three notches below normal, a meteorological department official said.

It was a chilly morning in the national capital with the minimum temperature settling at 3.6 degrees Celsius, three notches below normal, a meteorological department official said. The humidity level was recorded at 100 per cent. The weatherman has predicted a clear day ahead with the possibility of shallow fog on Tuesday morning. "The maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to settle around 22 and 4 degrees Celsius respectively," the official said. On Sunday, the minimum and maximum temperatures were recorded at 3 degrees Celsius and 20 degrees Celsius respectively.

Chilly morning in Delhi, minimum temperature at 3.6 degree Celsius

A cold wave swept through Delhi on Wednesday morning as the minimum temperature dropped to 3.6 degrees Celsius, the lowest this winter, the Met office said.

"The minimum temperature was recorded at 3.6 degree Celsius, four notches below the season's average. It is the lowest temperature recorded so far this year," it said.

Delhi has been reeling under a cold wave for the past a few days. On December 23, the minimum temperature was recorded at 3.7 degrees Celsius. It is expected to dip to 3.0 degrees Celsius after December 28.

The weatherman has predicted clear skies throughout the day on Wednesday and the maximum temperature is expected to hover around 20 degrees Celsius.

According to the Met department, humidity level recorded at 8.30 am was 97 per cent.&nbsp;On Tuesday, the minimum temperature had settled at 5.0 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Srinagar -- the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir -- <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/srinagar-records-coldest-night-in-11-years-minimum-plunges-to-minus-68-degrees-celsius-186137">recorded the coldest night in 11 years</a> as the minimum temperature plunged to minus 6.8 degrees Celsius, resulting in partial freezing of the Dal Lake and water supply lines to residential areas on Monday.

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The all-time low recorded in the month of December in Srinagar is minus 12.8 degrees Celsius on December 13, 1934.

"Srinagar city recorded a low of minus 6.8 degrees Celsius. This is the coldest recorded temperature in the city in almost 11 years. The city had registered a low of minus 7.2 degrees Celsius on December 31, 2007," an official of the MET department told PTI on Monday.

The cold wave resulted in freezing of some water bodies, including the fringes of the famous Dal Lake here, and residential water supply pipes.

A cold wave swept through Delhi on Wednesday morning as the minimum temperature dropped to 3.6 degrees Celsius, the lowest this winter, the Met office said. "The minimum temperature was recorded at 3.

A cold wave swept through Delhi on Wednesday morning as the minimum temperature dropped to 3.6 degrees Celsius, the lowest this winter, the Met office said. "The minimum temperature was recorded at 3.6 degree Celsius, four notches below the season's average. It is the lowest temperature recorded so far this year," it said. Delhi has been reeling under a cold wave for the past a few days. On December 23, the minimum temperature was recorded at 3.7 degrees Celsius. It is expected to dip to 3.0 degrees Celsius after December 28. The weatherman has predicted clear skies throughout the day on Wednesday and the maximum temperature is expected to hover around 20 degrees Celsius. According to the Met department, humidity level recorded at 8.30 am was 97 per cent. On Tuesday, the minimum temperature had settled at 5.0 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, Srinagar -- the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir -- recorded the coldest night in 11 years as the minimum temperature plunged to minus 6.8 degrees Celsius, resulting in partial freezing of the Dal Lake and water supply lines to residential areas on Monday. Jammu & Kashmir: Parts of Srinagar's Dal Lake are frozen due to cold wave conditions in the region pic.twitter.com/ODpgz64KlW — ANI (@ANI) December 26, 2018 × The all-time low recorded in the month of December in Srinagar is minus 12.8 degrees Celsius on December 13, 1934. "Srinagar city recorded a low of minus 6.8 degrees Celsius. This is the coldest recorded temperature in the city in almost 11 years. The city had registered a low of minus 7.2 degrees Celsius on December 31, 2007," an official of the MET department told PTI on Monday. The cold wave resulted in freezing of some water bodies, including the fringes of the famous Dal Lake here, and residential water supply pipes.

Delhi records coldest day of month, mercury dips to 3 degrees

Delhi's air quality continued to be in the poor category but is likely to improve with authorities forecasting increased wind speed.

The overall air quality index (AQI) for the national capital was recorded at 263, which falls in the 'poor' category. According to the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) also the overall Delhi air quality is still poor.&nbsp;

"It may improve as wind speed is sufficiently high. Wind speed continued to remain a key factor in improving the air quality. Temperature is not declining and there is good sunlight. However, humidity is still high and temperature is likely to cool. Both factors are unfavourable and push AQI to very poor," it said.

The overall PM2.5 (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) level was recorded at 119 and the PM10 (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres) level at 210, SAFAR said.

The national capital recorded its best air quality in moderate category in over two months on Thursday after rains washed down pollutants before slipping into poor category on Friday.

On Saturday, four areas -- Jahangirpuri, Nehru Nagar, Wazirpur and R K Puram -- recorded very poor air quality while 24 recorded poor air quality and four moderate air quality, the Central Pollution Control Board said.

An AQI between 100 to 200 comes under moderate category, 201 and 300 is considered 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor' and 401 and 500 'severe'.

Neighbouring Ghaziabad, Noida and Faridabad recorded 'poor' air quality, while Gurgaon recorded 'moderate' air quality, the CPCB data showed.

According to the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the maximum ventilation index is 3000 sqm/second on Saturday.

A ventilation index lower than 6,000 sqm/second with average wind speed less than 10 kmph are unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants.&nbsp;

Delhi's air quality continued to be in the poor category but is likely to improve with authorities forecasting increased wind speed. The overall air quality index (AQI) for the national capital was recorded at 263, which falls in the 'poor' category.

Delhi's air quality continued to be in the poor category but is likely to improve with authorities forecasting increased wind speed. The overall air quality index (AQI) for the national capital was recorded at 263, which falls in the 'poor' category. According to the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) also the overall Delhi air quality is still poor. "It may improve as wind speed is sufficiently high. Wind speed continued to remain a key factor in improving the air quality. Temperature is not declining and there is good sunlight. However, humidity is still high and temperature is likely to cool. Both factors are unfavourable and push AQI to very poor," it said. The overall PM2.5 (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) level was recorded at 119 and the PM10 (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres) level at 210, SAFAR said. The national capital recorded its best air quality in moderate category in over two months on Thursday after rains washed down pollutants before slipping into poor category on Friday. On Saturday, four areas -- Jahangirpuri, Nehru Nagar, Wazirpur and R K Puram -- recorded very poor air quality while 24 recorded poor air quality and four moderate air quality, the Central Pollution Control Board said. An AQI between 100 to 200 comes under moderate category, 201 and 300 is considered 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor' and 401 and 500 'severe'. Neighbouring Ghaziabad, Noida and Faridabad recorded 'poor' air quality, while Gurgaon recorded 'moderate' air quality, the CPCB data showed. According to the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the maximum ventilation index is 3000 sqm/second on Saturday. A ventilation index lower than 6,000 sqm/second with average wind speed less than 10 kmph are unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants.

Delhi's air quality continues to be in poor category

Thousands of farmers from across the country, who have been camping at the Ramlila ground in Delhi since Thursday, began their march to Parliament Street on Friday amid heavy policy deployment, to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

Over 3,500 police personnel have deployed on the route of the march. According to a senior police officer, special arrangements have been made in Central and New Delhi police districts.

As many as 850 police personnel, up to the rank of sub-inspectors, have been deployed in the Central district. They have been augmented by the presence of 12 police companies, including two of women, each comprising 75-80 personnel, a police official said.

In New Delhi district, 346 police personnel, up to the rank of sub-inspectors, have been deployed and 600 personnel from other districts will also help them, the official said.

Nine police companies, along with 71 officers, from the rank of inspectors up to additional DCPs, are also present.

Farmers from different parts of the country, including Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh converged at the Ramlila ground on Thursday.

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Delhi: Farmers from all across the nation hold protest for the second day over their demands of debt relief, better MSP for crops, among others; latest <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/visuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#visuals</a> from near Jantar Mantar <a href="https://t.co/zwnHQHALkk">pic.twitter.com/zwnHQHALkk</a>
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Delhi: Latest <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/visuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#visuals</a> from near Jantar Mantar on the second day of 2-day protest by farmers from all across the nation, who are asking for debt relief, better MSP for crops, among other demands <a href="https://t.co/SIccqj6DIo">pic.twitter.com/SIccqj6DIo</a>
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Traffic was disrupted in many parts of the city on Thursday as the farmers marched to the Ramlila ground in the heart of the city on four different routes, starting from Anand Vihar, Nizamuddin and Bijwasan railway stations and Sabzi Mandi.

Banded under the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC), which claims to be an umbrella body of 207 organisations of farmers and agricultural workers, many farmers arrived in the city on Thursday, on trains, buses and other modes of transport.

Kamla, a functionary of the All India Kisan Sabha's Delhi unit, said farmers from nearby areas converged at Majnu Ka Tila on the outskirts of Delhi from where they marched in groups to Ramlila Maidan on Thursday.

About 1,200 members of the National South Indian River Interlinking Agriculturalists Association reached the national capital in the early hours of Thursday carrying skulls of two of their colleagues who had committed suicide, their leader P Ayyakannu claimed.

The group from Tamil Nadu had threatened to march naked if they are not allowed to go to Parliament on Friday. They had last year staged protests at Jantar Mantar with the skulls of eight farmers who killed themselves owing to losses.

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Delhi: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Visuals</a> from near Ramlila Maidan on the second day of 2-day protest by farmers from all across the nation, who are asking for debt relief, better MSP for crops, among other demands <a href="https://t.co/j145x5uhc7">pic.twitter.com/j145x5uhc7</a>
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The AIKSCC has claimed that the two-day rally will be one of the largest congregations of farmers in Delhi.

Five Gurdwaras in the Delhi region have extended their help to the farmers. Also, students from various universities turned out in large numbers to lend support to the farmers. The protest also saw participation of a number of women farmers who travelled from various parts of the country.

Volunteers, including doctors, lawyers, professors and artists, all came out in large numbers to help the farmers. Around 600-700 volunteers of a solidarity group 'Nation For Farmers' marched with the protesters from the four assembly points.

The AIKSCC was formed under the aegis of All India Kisan Sabha and other Left-affiliated farmers' bodies in June, 2017, following protests by farmers in states such as Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh for debt relief and remunerative prices.&nbsp;

Thousands of farmers from across the country, who have been camping at the Ramlila ground in Delhi since Thursday, began their march to Parliament Street on Friday amid heavy policy deployment, to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

Thousands of farmers from across the country, who have been camping at the Ramlila ground in Delhi since Thursday, began their march to Parliament Street on Friday amid heavy policy deployment, to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce. Over 3,500 police personnel have deployed on the route of the march. According to a senior police officer, special arrangements have been made in Central and New Delhi police districts. As many as 850 police personnel, up to the rank of sub-inspectors, have been deployed in the Central district. They have been augmented by the presence of 12 police companies, including two of women, each comprising 75-80 personnel, a police official said. In New Delhi district, 346 police personnel, up to the rank of sub-inspectors, have been deployed and 600 personnel from other districts will also help them, the official said. Nine police companies, along with 71 officers, from the rank of inspectors up to additional DCPs, are also present. Farmers from different parts of the country, including Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh converged at the Ramlila ground on Thursday. Delhi: Farmers from all across the nation hold protest for the second day over their demands of debt relief, better MSP for crops, among others; latest #visuals from near Jantar Mantar pic.twitter.com/zwnHQHALkk — ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2018 × Delhi: Latest #visuals from near Jantar Mantar on the second day of 2-day protest by farmers from all across the nation, who are asking for debt relief, better MSP for crops, among other demands pic.twitter.com/SIccqj6DIo — ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2018 × Traffic was disrupted in many parts of the city on Thursday as the farmers marched to the Ramlila ground in the heart of the city on four different routes, starting from Anand Vihar, Nizamuddin and Bijwasan railway stations and Sabzi Mandi. Banded under the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC), which claims to be an umbrella body of 207 organisations of farmers and agricultural workers, many farmers arrived in the city on Thursday, on trains, buses and other modes of transport. Kamla, a functionary of the All India Kisan Sabha's Delhi unit, said farmers from nearby areas converged at Majnu Ka Tila on the outskirts of Delhi from where they marched in groups to Ramlila Maidan on Thursday. About 1,200 members of the National South Indian River Interlinking Agriculturalists Association reached the national capital in the early hours of Thursday carrying skulls of two of their colleagues who had committed suicide, their leader P Ayyakannu claimed. The group from Tamil Nadu had threatened to march naked if they are not allowed to go to Parliament on Friday. They had last year staged protests at Jantar Mantar with the skulls of eight farmers who killed themselves owing to losses. Delhi: #Visuals from near Ramlila Maidan on the second day of 2-day protest by farmers from all across the nation, who are asking for debt relief, better MSP for crops, among other demands pic.twitter.com/j145x5uhc7 — ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2018 × The AIKSCC has claimed that the two-day rally will be one of the largest congregations of farmers in Delhi. Five Gurdwaras in the Delhi region have extended their help to the farmers. Also, students from various universities turned out in large numbers to lend support to the farmers. The protest also saw participation of a number of women farmers who travelled from various parts of the country. Volunteers, including doctors, lawyers, professors and artists, all came out in large numbers to help the farmers. Around 600-700 volunteers of a solidarity group 'Nation For Farmers' marched with the protesters from the four assembly points. The AIKSCC was formed under the aegis of All India Kisan Sabha and other Left-affiliated farmers' bodies in June, 2017, following protests by farmers in states such as Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh for debt relief and remunerative prices.

Farmers begin march towards Parliament from Ramlila Maidan; 3,500 cops deployed

Thousands of farmers from across the country started to converge in Delhi on Thursday for a two-day protest rally to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

"Farmers, from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and other states, will march on four different routes in the national capital, starting at three major railway stations Anand Vihar, Nizamuddin and Bijwasan&nbsp;and at Sabzi Mandi,"&nbsp;their leaders said.

All the marchers will pour in at Ramlila Ground in the heart of the city by evening.

Farmers from Delhi, Punjab and Haryana started trickling in by 10:30 am.

Kamla, a functionary of the All India Kisan Sabha's Delhi unit, said farmers have also arrived at Majnu Ka Tila, from where they will start marching in groups to Ramlila Maidan.

"We hope by 3 pm, farmers from across the country will arrive at Ramlila Ground," said AIKS.

The two-day rally will be "one of the largest congregations of farmers" in Delhi, the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC) claimed on Wednesday.

The AIKSCC, which claims to be an umbrella body of 207 organisations of farmers and agricultural workers, said a cultural programme would be held at Ramlila Ground on Thursday, the first day of the protest, where prominent singers and poets from rural India would perform.

Police said they have made elaborate arrangements for the rally on Friday when the farmers will begin their march from Ramlila Ground to Parliament Street.

Support for farmers has started pouring with activists taking to Twitter to ask the general public to join the march.

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Delhi: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Visuals</a> of farmers' protest from near Ramlila Maidan area. Farmers from all across the nation have gathered in Delhi to participate in a 2-day protest from today over their demands, including debt relief &amp; better MSP for crops <a href="https://t.co/SB5pVkw2HT">pic.twitter.com/SB5pVkw2HT</a>
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Delhi: Farmers who gathered at Bijwasan, on their way to Ramlila Maidan. Farmers have gathered at different locations in the city &amp; will march to Ramlila Maidan. They are holding a 2-day protest from today over their demands, including debt relief &amp; better MSP for crops <a href="https://t.co/pmN38f26cV">pic.twitter.com/pmN38f26cV</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1068014040918749184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"Women farmers greet us this morning from Brijwasan as they are all set to embark on #KisanMuktiMarch. Join us even if you are not a farmer. Join the hands that toil to feed us. Jai Kisan!," tweeted political activist Yogendra Yadav.

Lawyer Prashant Bhushan also tweeted in solidarity with farmers.

"Over 3 lakh farmers have committed suicide in India in last 15 years,due to successive government betraying them. Tomorrow 1 lakh farmers from across the country are marching to Delhi to ask for fair prices&amp; freedom from debt. Let's stand in solidarity with them," he said.

Thousands of farmers from across the country started to converge in Delhi on Thursday for a two-day protest rally to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

Thousands of farmers from across the country started to converge in Delhi on Thursday for a two-day protest rally to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce. "Farmers, from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and other states, will march on four different routes in the national capital, starting at three major railway stations Anand Vihar, Nizamuddin and Bijwasan and at Sabzi Mandi," their leaders said. All the marchers will pour in at Ramlila Ground in the heart of the city by evening. Farmers from Delhi, Punjab and Haryana started trickling in by 10:30 am. Kamla, a functionary of the All India Kisan Sabha's Delhi unit, said farmers have also arrived at Majnu Ka Tila, from where they will start marching in groups to Ramlila Maidan. "We hope by 3 pm, farmers from across the country will arrive at Ramlila Ground," said AIKS. The two-day rally will be "one of the largest congregations of farmers" in Delhi, the All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC) claimed on Wednesday. The AIKSCC, which claims to be an umbrella body of 207 organisations of farmers and agricultural workers, said a cultural programme would be held at Ramlila Ground on Thursday, the first day of the protest, where prominent singers and poets from rural India would perform. Police said they have made elaborate arrangements for the rally on Friday when the farmers will begin their march from Ramlila Ground to Parliament Street. Support for farmers has started pouring with activists taking to Twitter to ask the general public to join the march. Delhi: #Visuals of farmers' protest from near Ramlila Maidan area. Farmers from all across the nation have gathered in Delhi to participate in a 2-day protest from today over their demands, including debt relief & better MSP for crops pic.twitter.com/SB5pVkw2HT — ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2018 × Delhi: Farmers who gathered at Bijwasan, on their way to Ramlila Maidan. Farmers have gathered at different locations in the city & will march to Ramlila Maidan. They are holding a 2-day protest from today over their demands, including debt relief & better MSP for crops pic.twitter.com/pmN38f26cV — ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2018 × "Women farmers greet us this morning from Brijwasan as they are all set to embark on #KisanMuktiMarch. Join us even if you are not a farmer. Join the hands that toil to feed us. Jai Kisan!," tweeted political activist Yogendra Yadav. Lawyer Prashant Bhushan also tweeted in solidarity with farmers. "Over 3 lakh farmers have committed suicide in India in last 15 years,due to successive government betraying them. Tomorrow 1 lakh farmers from across the country are marching to Delhi to ask for fair prices& freedom from debt. Let's stand in solidarity with them," he said.

To protest to govt, thousands of farmers converge on Delhi from across the country

An officer has died after jumping off the Delhi Police headquarters building.&nbsp;

The ACP-rank officer was identified as Prem Ballabh. He was&nbsp;55 years old.&nbsp;

Ballabh had been posted with Delhi Police's Crime and Traffic Unit.

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Delhi: Prem Ballabh, 55 year old ACP rank official, who died after he allegedly jumped off from the Police Headquarters building. <a href="https://t.co/ISX6JTkXEA">pic.twitter.com/ISX6JTkXEA</a>
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It is not yet known what might have caused Ballabh to kill himself.&nbsp;Police are investigating the apparent suicide.

(This is a developing story.&nbsp;Further details are awaited.)

An officer has died after jumping off the Delhi Police headquarters building. The ACP-rank officer was identified as Prem Ballabh. He was 55 years old. Ballabh had been posted with Delhi Police's Crime and Traffic Unit.

An officer has died after jumping off the Delhi Police headquarters building. The ACP-rank officer was identified as Prem Ballabh. He was 55 years old. Ballabh had been posted with Delhi Police's Crime and Traffic Unit. Delhi: Prem Ballabh, 55 year old ACP rank official, who died after he allegedly jumped off from the Police Headquarters building. pic.twitter.com/ISX6JTkXEA — ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2018 × It is not yet known what might have caused Ballabh to kill himself. Police are investigating the apparent suicide. (This is a developing story. Further details are awaited.)

Officer dies after jumping off from Delhi Police headquarters

Delhiites woke up to a thick haze hanging over the city as the air quality was recorded in the 'very poor' category.

The overall air quality index (AQI) of Delhi was recorded at 316, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'.

The CPCB said 22 areas of Delhi recorded 'very poor' air quality while 13 areas recorded 'poor' air quality.

The level of PM2.5 -- particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres -- was recorded at 159 and the PM10 level was recorded at 316, it said.

In NCR, Ghaziabad, Faridabad and Noida recorded 'very poor' air quality while Gurgaon recorded 'poor' air quality, the CPCB data showed.

According to the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, a haze has engulfed Delhi and the wind speed and ventilation index are "extremely unfavourable" for dispersion of pollutants.

Ventilation index determines how fast pollutants can get dispersed.

The ventilation index of around 6,000 sqm/second gets rid of pollutants, but it came down to 1,500 sqm/second on Tuesday in the city.

The air quality is very poor and as expected, gradual increasing trend is noticed," the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) said.&nbsp;

"It is likely to remain very poor with a gradual increasing trend till Wednesday without any major episode and then likely to decline, but (will) continue to remain in very poor (category)," it said.&nbsp;

Delhiites woke up to a thick haze hanging over the city as the air quality was recorded in the 'very poor' category. The overall air quality index (AQI) of Delhi was recorded at 316, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.

Delhiites woke up to a thick haze hanging over the city as the air quality was recorded in the 'very poor' category. The overall air quality index (AQI) of Delhi was recorded at 316, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. The CPCB said 22 areas of Delhi recorded 'very poor' air quality while 13 areas recorded 'poor' air quality. The level of PM2.5 -- particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres -- was recorded at 159 and the PM10 level was recorded at 316, it said. In NCR, Ghaziabad, Faridabad and Noida recorded 'very poor' air quality while Gurgaon recorded 'poor' air quality, the CPCB data showed. According to the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, a haze has engulfed Delhi and the wind speed and ventilation index are "extremely unfavourable" for dispersion of pollutants. Ventilation index determines how fast pollutants can get dispersed. The ventilation index of around 6,000 sqm/second gets rid of pollutants, but it came down to 1,500 sqm/second on Tuesday in the city. The air quality is very poor and as expected, gradual increasing trend is noticed," the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) said. "It is likely to remain very poor with a gradual increasing trend till Wednesday without any major episode and then likely to decline, but (will) continue to remain in very poor (category)," it said.

Thick haze envelopes Delhi, air quality very poor

Delhi Police have arrested a man caught with a bullet in his pocket during his visit to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday morning.&nbsp;

The man, identified as Imran, told police that he found the bullet&nbsp;in the donation given to a mosque, kept it in his wallet and later forgot about it, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Imran meanwhile has been arrested under the Arms Act.

"He's a caretaker at Baoli masjid in Karol Bagh. He says someone had dropped it in donation box 2 months back. He didn't inform police&amp;carried it with intention of throwing it away: ADCP Harinder Singh," the police said.

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A live cartridge was found in pocket of one of the men. We arrested him (pic 2). He's a caretaker at Baoli masjid in Karol Bagh. He says someone had dropped it in donation box 2 months back.He didn't inform police&amp;carried it with intention of throwing it away: ADCP Harinder Singh <a href="https://t.co/wQkaE5oG8h">pic.twitter.com/wQkaE5oG8h</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1067298375308140544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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According to reports, he was among the clerics who had gone to the CM with a request to increase Waqf Board salaries.

The incident comes just a week after a man threw red pepper powder at him inside the Delhi Secretariat last Tuesday.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, last Wednesday, reacted to the chilli powder attack, stating that it was not the first time when he was being attacked.&nbsp;

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I've been attacked 4 times in 2 yrs. It's not minor issue.These attacks aren't taking place,they're being ordered.Humlog inki aankhon ka roda ban chuke hain.Yelog milke mujhe marwana chahte hain. Ye baar-baar humlogo ke upar hamle karwa rahe hain: Delhi CM on chilli powder attack <a href="https://t.co/vT4BW8Jshg">pic.twitter.com/vT4BW8Jshg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1065202851071369219?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Kejriwal added that the attacks on him on are not a minor issue and that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/these-attacks-arent-taking-place-theyre-being-ordered-delhi-cm-kejriwal-178616">he thinks those are being ordered</a>.&nbsp;

"I've been attacked four times in two years. It's not a minor issue. These attacks aren't taking place, they're being ordered," Kejriwal said.&nbsp;

He said that these attacks are aimed at taking his life.

 
&nbsp;

Delhi Police have arrested a man caught with a bullet in his pocket during his visit to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday morning. The man, identified as Imran, told police that he found the bullet in the donation given to a mosque, kept it in his wallet and later forgot about it, news agency ANI reported.

Delhi Police have arrested a man caught with a bullet in his pocket during his visit to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday morning. The man, identified as Imran, told police that he found the bullet in the donation given to a mosque, kept it in his wallet and later forgot about it, news agency ANI reported. Imran meanwhile has been arrested under the Arms Act. "He's a caretaker at Baoli masjid in Karol Bagh. He says someone had dropped it in donation box 2 months back. He didn't inform police&carried it with intention of throwing it away: ADCP Harinder Singh," the police said. A live cartridge was found in pocket of one of the men. We arrested him (pic 2). He's a caretaker at Baoli masjid in Karol Bagh. He says someone had dropped it in donation box 2 months back.He didn't inform police&carried it with intention of throwing it away: ADCP Harinder Singh pic.twitter.com/wQkaE5oG8h — ANI (@ANI) November 27, 2018 × According to reports, he was among the clerics who had gone to the CM with a request to increase Waqf Board salaries. The incident comes just a week after a man threw red pepper powder at him inside the Delhi Secretariat last Tuesday. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, last Wednesday, reacted to the chilli powder attack, stating that it was not the first time when he was being attacked. I've been attacked 4 times in 2 yrs. It's not minor issue.These attacks aren't taking place,they're being ordered.Humlog inki aankhon ka roda ban chuke hain.Yelog milke mujhe marwana chahte hain. Ye baar-baar humlogo ke upar hamle karwa rahe hain: Delhi CM on chilli powder attack pic.twitter.com/vT4BW8Jshg — ANI (@ANI) November 21, 2018 × Kejriwal added that the attacks on him on are not a minor issue and that he thinks those are being ordered. "I've been attacked four times in two years. It's not a minor issue. These attacks aren't taking place, they're being ordered," Kejriwal said. He said that these attacks are aimed at taking his life.

Delhi Police arrest cleric caught with bullet while visiting CM Kejriwal

People residing in Delhi and National Capital Region are reeling under the impact of breathing polluted air from the past couple of months due to vehicular pollution, crop residue burning and climate change.

As per the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the air quality index (AQI) of Delhi was recorded 349 on Tuesday, falling under the 'very poor'&nbsp;quality category.

The fog will lift in the morning with maximum and minimum temperatures hovering around 31 degrees Celsius and 13-degree Celsius, respectively.

Humidity in the region has plummeted to 60 per cent with a wind speed of 8 kilometres per hour. AQI between the range of 0-50 is considered good while the range beyond 500 is contemplated as hazardous.

The air quality index between the range 51 to 100 is marked as satisfactory while 101-200 range is touted as moderate.

The range of 201-300 comes under the category of poor whereas 401-500 range is considered as severe. At Dhirpur, the AQI was 387 at 8:45 am, while in Mathura Road area, it dipped to 'very poor'&nbsp;at 361.

Furthermore, AQI near Pitampura, Airport Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 356, 335 and 326, respectively. Experts have predicted that the air pollution will continue to engulf the capital and its nearby region from the next couple of days.

"The air quality is very poor and will remain very poor with a gradually increasing trend for the next two days without any major episode and then likely to decline. The AQI will remain in the very poor category only. The increase is attributed to declining in wind speed as compared to past two days. Tomorrow, the sky is likely to be hazy /cloudy (not good for aq). All other meteorological factors are unfavourable and likely to remain so at least for the next two days. The contribution from stubble biomass has almost seized, " the forecasting agency stated.

In order to prevent the smog-haze issue, the pollution-hit cities can follow in Singapore's footsteps which also faced a similar issue in 2015.

In order to provide relief to its citizens, the Singapore government introduced the Haze Subsidy scheme, which provided affordable treatment for haze-related conditions to elderly, children and poor.

The climate change has also adversely affected the snow-laden peaks and landscapes of Himachal Pradesh.

The untimely snowfall in Lahul Spiti which is at least 3000 metres above the sea level, has resulted in the loss of crops such as cabbage, apple, potatoes etc. This area usually receives heavy snowfall between the month of December and April.

People residing in Delhi and National Capital Region are reeling under the impact of breathing polluted air from the past couple of months due to vehicular pollution, crop residue burning and climate change.

People residing in Delhi and National Capital Region are reeling under the impact of breathing polluted air from the past couple of months due to vehicular pollution, crop residue burning and climate change. As per the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the air quality index (AQI) of Delhi was recorded 349 on Tuesday, falling under the 'very poor' quality category. The fog will lift in the morning with maximum and minimum temperatures hovering around 31 degrees Celsius and 13-degree Celsius, respectively. Humidity in the region has plummeted to 60 per cent with a wind speed of 8 kilometres per hour. AQI between the range of 0-50 is considered good while the range beyond 500 is contemplated as hazardous. The air quality index between the range 51 to 100 is marked as satisfactory while 101-200 range is touted as moderate. The range of 201-300 comes under the category of poor whereas 401-500 range is considered as severe. At Dhirpur, the AQI was 387 at 8:45 am, while in Mathura Road area, it dipped to 'very poor' at 361. Furthermore, AQI near Pitampura, Airport Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 356, 335 and 326, respectively. Experts have predicted that the air pollution will continue to engulf the capital and its nearby region from the next couple of days. "The air quality is very poor and will remain very poor with a gradually increasing trend for the next two days without any major episode and then likely to decline. The AQI will remain in the very poor category only. The increase is attributed to declining in wind speed as compared to past two days. Tomorrow, the sky is likely to be hazy /cloudy (not good for aq). All other meteorological factors are unfavourable and likely to remain so at least for the next two days. The contribution from stubble biomass has almost seized, " the forecasting agency stated. In order to prevent the smog-haze issue, the pollution-hit cities can follow in Singapore's footsteps which also faced a similar issue in 2015. In order to provide relief to its citizens, the Singapore government introduced the Haze Subsidy scheme, which provided affordable treatment for haze-related conditions to elderly, children and poor. The climate change has also adversely affected the snow-laden peaks and landscapes of Himachal Pradesh. The untimely snowfall in Lahul Spiti which is at least 3000 metres above the sea level, has resulted in the loss of crops such as cabbage, apple, potatoes etc. This area usually receives heavy snowfall between the month of December and April.

Delhiites gasp for breath as air quality remains unhealthy

In another shocking incident of sexual harassment in the national capital, a man was arrested by Delhi police for allegedly masturbating in front of a woman in a bus.

According to reports, the woman was travelling on a bus from Vasant Kunj to Kapasheda and reported that the man who was standing in front of her started masturbating, adding that he continued with his act unabated even after she shouted. She told that none of the fellow passengers came for help, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The woman even shouted at the man and thrashed him, she later complained to the police which led to his arrest.&nbsp;

"No one on the bus helped me, even when I was beating him. I had to do everything on my own," she told ANI. "The police is further investigating the matter," she said.

As per media reports, the incident took place on Tuesday around 9pm. The man was identified as Mukesh Ranjan Kumar, 37, who works with an event management firm.&nbsp;

This is not the first time when an incident of sexual misconduct surfaced in public in the national capital. Earlier this year, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-announce-rs-25000-reward-to-trace-man-who-masturbated-next-to-a-girl-in-bus-33147">a video of a man masturbating while sitting next to a girl in a Delhi bus</a> made headlines.&nbsp;

The disgusting act was caught on camera by the Delhi University student sitting next to him, who later filed a complaint with the police.

The student alleged that a man was masturbating while sitting beside her on a crowded bus, adding he even tried to repeatedly touch her waist by his elbow.&nbsp;

The student managed to capture the act on camera and uploaded it on to social media, where it triggered massive anger and outrage with users demanding the immediate arrest of the man.

(With inputs from agencies)

In another shocking incident of sexual harassment in the national capital, a man was arrested by Delhi police for allegedly masturbating in front of a woman in a bus.

In another shocking incident of sexual harassment in the national capital, a man was arrested by Delhi police for allegedly masturbating in front of a woman in a bus. According to reports, the woman was travelling on a bus from Vasant Kunj to Kapasheda and reported that the man who was standing in front of her started masturbating, adding that he continued with his act unabated even after she shouted. She told that none of the fellow passengers came for help, news agency ANI reported. The woman even shouted at the man and thrashed him, she later complained to the police which led to his arrest. "No one on the bus helped me, even when I was beating him. I had to do everything on my own," she told ANI. "The police is further investigating the matter," she said. As per media reports, the incident took place on Tuesday around 9pm. The man was identified as Mukesh Ranjan Kumar, 37, who works with an event management firm. This is not the first time when an incident of sexual misconduct surfaced in public in the national capital. Earlier this year, a video of a man masturbating while sitting next to a girl in a Delhi bus made headlines. The disgusting act was caught on camera by the Delhi University student sitting next to him, who later filed a complaint with the police. The student alleged that a man was masturbating while sitting beside her on a crowded bus, adding he even tried to repeatedly touch her waist by his elbow. The student managed to capture the act on camera and uploaded it on to social media, where it triggered massive anger and outrage with users demanding the immediate arrest of the man. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi: Woman thrashes man for masturbating on bus, gets him arrested

A man threw red pepper powder at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal inside the Delhi secretariat on Tuesday, officials said.&nbsp;

The powder was hidden in a cigarette packet while he was waiting in the visitor's area, reports said

The man, Anil Kumar, has been detained, the police said.&nbsp;

As per reports, Kumar, 40, is from Delhi's&nbsp;Narayana.

The attack took place outside the chief minister's chamber on the third floor when he was leaving for lunch.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: CCTV visuals of the incident that took place at Delhi's Central Secretariat where chilli powder fell from a man's hand. He had come to meet Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal with his grievances. Investigation underway whether it was an attack or powder fell unintentionally <a href="https://t.co/OlRrScpmC2">pic.twitter.com/OlRrScpmC2</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1064850107458355204?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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AAP condemned the&nbsp;attack on Kejriwal and called it politically motivated. However, despite the alarming video, the police said it was investigating if the incident was "unintentional", according to news agency ANI.&nbsp;

After throwing red pepper powder on Kejriwal, Kumar threatened to shoot him after he comes out of jail, an official recounted.

(With agency inputs)

A man threw red pepper powder at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal inside the Delhi secretariat on Tuesday, officials said. The powder was hidden in a cigarette packet while he was waiting in the visitor's area, reports said The man, Anil Kumar, has been detained, the police said.

A man threw red pepper powder at Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal inside the Delhi secretariat on Tuesday, officials said. The powder was hidden in a cigarette packet while he was waiting in the visitor's area, reports said The man, Anil Kumar, has been detained, the police said. As per reports, Kumar, 40, is from Delhi's Narayana. The attack took place outside the chief minister's chamber on the third floor when he was leaving for lunch. #WATCH: CCTV visuals of the incident that took place at Delhi's Central Secretariat where chilli powder fell from a man's hand. He had come to meet Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal with his grievances. Investigation underway whether it was an attack or powder fell unintentionally pic.twitter.com/OlRrScpmC2 — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2018 × AAP condemned the attack on Kejriwal and called it politically motivated. However, despite the alarming video, the police said it was investigating if the incident was "unintentional", according to news agency ANI. After throwing red pepper powder on Kejriwal, Kumar threatened to shoot him after he comes out of jail, an official recounted. (With agency inputs)

Delhi CM attacked with chilli powder in secretariat

The national capital's air quality turned severe on Monday evening as the pollution level increased again due to unfavourable meteorological conditions such as low wind speed, authorities said.

The overall air quality index (AQI) in the city was recorded at 407 which falls in the severe category, according to data provided by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

The PM2.5 (particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) level on Monday was recorded at 262 while the PM10 (particles in the air with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres) was recorded at 460, the CPCB said.

Nineteen areas in Delhi recorded severe air quality while 17 areas showed very poor air quality, it said, adding Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Greater Noida and Noida recorded severe air quality while Gurgaon showed improvement with the AQI being in the moderate category.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe".

Satellite images by Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) showed moderate stubble burning fire count that is contributing to seven per cent pollution at PM2.5 in Delhi.

Authorities have attributed the dip in air quality to unfavourable weather conditions such as low wind speed.

SAFAR said the air quality is likely to improve further by Tuesday but will remain in the "very poor" category.

"The stubble related impact continue to remain nominal due to slow transport height winds," it said.

The air quality in the national capital deteriorated severely on Thursday, a day after Diwali and continued to remain in the 'severe'&nbsp;category before showing a slight improvement on Saturday. Since then it has been oscillating between very poor and severe.&nbsp;

The national capital's air quality turned severe on Monday evening as the pollution level increased again due to unfavourable meteorological conditions such as low wind speed, authorities said.

The national capital's air quality turned severe on Monday evening as the pollution level increased again due to unfavourable meteorological conditions such as low wind speed, authorities said. The overall air quality index (AQI) in the city was recorded at 407 which falls in the severe category, according to data provided by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The PM2.5 (particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) level on Monday was recorded at 262 while the PM10 (particles in the air with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres) was recorded at 460, the CPCB said. Nineteen areas in Delhi recorded severe air quality while 17 areas showed very poor air quality, it said, adding Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Greater Noida and Noida recorded severe air quality while Gurgaon showed improvement with the AQI being in the moderate category. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe". Satellite images by Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) showed moderate stubble burning fire count that is contributing to seven per cent pollution at PM2.5 in Delhi. Authorities have attributed the dip in air quality to unfavourable weather conditions such as low wind speed. SAFAR said the air quality is likely to improve further by Tuesday but will remain in the "very poor" category. "The stubble related impact continue to remain nominal due to slow transport height winds," it said. The air quality in the national capital deteriorated severely on Thursday, a day after Diwali and continued to remain in the 'severe' category before showing a slight improvement on Saturday. Since then it has been oscillating between very poor and severe.

Unfavourable meteorological conditions turn Delhi's air quality severe again: Authorities

A hijack scare on a Kandahar-bound flight sent security officials at the Delhi airport into tizzy on Saturday after the pilot "mistakenly" pressed the 'hijack button' when it was taxiing for take-off, sources said.

The Ariana Afghan Airlines plane took off nearly two hours later after "satisfactory" security checks, they said.&nbsp;

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After security clearance by Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), the aircraft took off for Kandahar after a two hour delay. <a href="https://t.co/zdHXBP4nvu">https://t.co/zdHXBP4nvu</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1061310000239382530?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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While there was no immediate official reaction, the sources said the pressing of hijack button had pushed all agencies concerned, including the anti-terror force National Security Guard (NSG), into action.

NSG commandos and officials of other agencies swiftly responded to the situation and surrounded the aircraft, they said.

After a two-hour operation that created panic among passengers on board the aircraft, the plane was cleared for take-off, the sources said.

The Delhi-Kandahar FG312 flight was scheduled to depart at 3.30 pm.&nbsp;

A hijack scare on a Kandahar-bound flight sent security officials at the Delhi airport into tizzy on Saturday after the pilot "mistakenly" pressed the 'hijack button' when it was taxiing for take-off, sources said.

A hijack scare on a Kandahar-bound flight sent security officials at the Delhi airport into tizzy on Saturday after the pilot "mistakenly" pressed the 'hijack button' when it was taxiing for take-off, sources said. The Ariana Afghan Airlines plane took off nearly two hours later after "satisfactory" security checks, they said. After security clearance by Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), the aircraft took off for Kandahar after a two hour delay. https://t.co/zdHXBP4nvu — ANI (@ANI) November 10, 2018 × While there was no immediate official reaction, the sources said the pressing of hijack button had pushed all agencies concerned, including the anti-terror force National Security Guard (NSG), into action. NSG commandos and officials of other agencies swiftly responded to the situation and surrounded the aircraft, they said. After a two-hour operation that created panic among passengers on board the aircraft, the plane was cleared for take-off, the sources said. The Delhi-Kandahar FG312 flight was scheduled to depart at 3.30 pm.

Hijack scare on Kandahar-bound plane at Delhi airport

More than 450 heavy and medium goods vehicles were sent back from Delhi borders due to a three-day ban on their entry till Sunday, authorities said.

According to Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Alok Kumar, 1,559 vehicles were checked and 1,078 vehicles were allowed entry from 11 pm on Friday till 6 am on Saturday as they were carrying essential goods.

As many as 481 vehicles were returned from the Delhi borders, Kumar added.

The Delhi government's transport department had issued a notification, banning the entry of heavy and medium goods vehicles into the region from 11 pm on Thursday till 11 pm on Sunday. It has also appealed to private diesel car owners to avoid using their vehicles during the period.

However, vehicles carrying vegetables, fruits, grains, milk, eggs, ice and other essentials, and tankers carrying petroleum products are exempted from the ban.

The air quality on Saturday was in the 'very-poor' category after local pollutants "reduced significantly" and the contribution from stubble-burning remained "marginal" due to wind speed, officials said.&nbsp;

More than 450 heavy and medium goods vehicles were sent back from Delhi borders due to a three-day ban on their entry till Sunday, authorities said. According to Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Alok Kumar, 1,559 vehicles were checked and 1,078 vehicles were allowed entry from 11 pm on Friday till 6 am on Saturday as they were carrying essential goods.

More than 450 heavy and medium goods vehicles were sent back from Delhi borders due to a three-day ban on their entry till Sunday, authorities said. According to Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Alok Kumar, 1,559 vehicles were checked and 1,078 vehicles were allowed entry from 11 pm on Friday till 6 am on Saturday as they were carrying essential goods. As many as 481 vehicles were returned from the Delhi borders, Kumar added. The Delhi government's transport department had issued a notification, banning the entry of heavy and medium goods vehicles into the region from 11 pm on Thursday till 11 pm on Sunday. It has also appealed to private diesel car owners to avoid using their vehicles during the period. However, vehicles carrying vegetables, fruits, grains, milk, eggs, ice and other essentials, and tankers carrying petroleum products are exempted from the ban. The air quality on Saturday was in the 'very-poor' category after local pollutants "reduced significantly" and the contribution from stubble-burning remained "marginal" due to wind speed, officials said.

Over 450 medium, heavy goods vehicles denied entry into Delhi over worsening air quality

A massive fire at a factory in the Bawana area in Delhi, was among the over 200 fire-related incidents reported to the Delhi Fire Services (DFS) on Diwali, officials said.

No casualties have been reported in the incident at the factory and 18 fire tenders have been pressed into service to douse the blaze, the Delhi Fire Services (DFC) said.

"The fire broke out at a factory in outer Delhi's Bawana locality. The call about the fire was received at 6:37 pm and immediately 18 fire tenders were rushed to the spot.&nbsp;

"The fire team is trying the bring the situation under control. Fortunately, no injuries or casualties have been reported so far," a senior DFS officer said.&nbsp;

He said a fire also broke out in an ATM in Delhi's Laxmi Nagar.&nbsp;

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A fire which broke out in an ATM in Delhi's Laxmi Nagar has now been doused <a href="https://t.co/5dZ8fzQ5Q6">pic.twitter.com/5dZ8fzQ5Q6</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1060196695924006914?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Officials said at least 209 fire-related calls were received until 10 pm Wednesday. Fires from crackers were less this year, they said.&nbsp;

Out of the total calls, 89 were fire at garbage and dump yards. Fires were also reported from factories and at houses due to domestic items and those related to electricity wires, officials said.

There has been no decline in the number of calls related to fire-incidents this year. Last year it was 200, they said.&nbsp;

The 209 calls were made from midnight of November 6 to November 7 until 10 pm, the official said.&nbsp;

Maximum calls were received from west and northwest districts of Delhi.&nbsp;

"We have been receiving frequent calls from across the city. However, maximum calls have been received from west and northwest parts of Delhi until now," the official said.&nbsp;

"Even last year, there was a ban on sale of firecrackers but we got close to 200 calls. This year, there were time restrictions on bursting of firecrackers and only green firecrackers were sold in the market but there has been frequent calls related to fire-incidents," he said.&nbsp;

There has been frequent calls coming in from various parts of the city. There has been no decline in calls. However, calls related to fire-crackers have been comparatively less, the official said.&nbsp;

Besides the 59 permanent fire stations in the national capital, the department has set up temporary stations at different locations across the city.&nbsp;

A massive fire at a factory in the Bawana area in Delhi, was among the over 200 fire-related incidents reported to the Delhi Fire Services (DFS) on Diwali, officials said.

A massive fire at a factory in the Bawana area in Delhi, was among the over 200 fire-related incidents reported to the Delhi Fire Services (DFS) on Diwali, officials said. No casualties have been reported in the incident at the factory and 18 fire tenders have been pressed into service to douse the blaze, the Delhi Fire Services (DFC) said. "The fire broke out at a factory in outer Delhi's Bawana locality. The call about the fire was received at 6:37 pm and immediately 18 fire tenders were rushed to the spot. "The fire team is trying the bring the situation under control. Fortunately, no injuries or casualties have been reported so far," a senior DFS officer said. He said a fire also broke out in an ATM in Delhi's Laxmi Nagar. A fire which broke out in an ATM in Delhi's Laxmi Nagar has now been doused pic.twitter.com/5dZ8fzQ5Q6 — ANI (@ANI) November 7, 2018 × Officials said at least 209 fire-related calls were received until 10 pm Wednesday. Fires from crackers were less this year, they said. Out of the total calls, 89 were fire at garbage and dump yards. Fires were also reported from factories and at houses due to domestic items and those related to electricity wires, officials said. There has been no decline in the number of calls related to fire-incidents this year. Last year it was 200, they said. The 209 calls were made from midnight of November 6 to November 7 until 10 pm, the official said. Maximum calls were received from west and northwest districts of Delhi. "We have been receiving frequent calls from across the city. However, maximum calls have been received from west and northwest parts of Delhi until now," the official said. "Even last year, there was a ban on sale of firecrackers but we got close to 200 calls. This year, there were time restrictions on bursting of firecrackers and only green firecrackers were sold in the market but there has been frequent calls related to fire-incidents," he said. There has been frequent calls coming in from various parts of the city. There has been no decline in calls. However, calls related to fire-crackers have been comparatively less, the official said. Besides the 59 permanent fire stations in the national capital, the department has set up temporary stations at different locations across the city.

Fire breaks out at factory, over 200 fire-related calls on Diwali

Supreme Court orders flouted as Diwali cracker curbs not followed

A day after Diwali a thick haze engulfed the national capital region which recorded an overall Air Quality Index of 319.

The AQI at several other places in the national capital reached 999 marks falling in the hazardous category.

The AQI in Satyawati College, ITI Shahdra, Jhilmil Industrial Area, Anand Vihar, Patparganj, Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium,&nbsp;RK Puram, Rohini, Dwarka, Okhla were recorded at 999.&nbsp;

The complications of breathing in hazardous air quality may lead to serious health effects.

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Thick layer of smog engulfs Delhi; visuals from near Akshardham Temple. <a href="https://t.co/K02CO18o5r">pic.twitter.com/K02CO18o5r</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1060362558723514369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The air quality started deteriorating rapidly from 7 pm. The AQI was 281 at 7 pm. It rose to 291 at 8 pm and further deteriorated to 294 at 9 pm and 296 at 10 pm, according to the CPCB.

The particulate matter 2.5 in north campus was recorded at 2000 on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, the AQI in several other places of the national Capital region was&nbsp;recorded in the "Very unhealthy" category. The AQI in Gurugram was recorded at 330, Greater Noida 228, Faridabad 448 and 327 in Noida.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a>'s Anand Vihar at 999, area around US Embassy, Chanakyapuri at 459 &amp; area around Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium at 999, all under 'Hazardous' category in Air Quality Index (AQI) <a href="https://t.co/QX7z5UYOl9">pic.twitter.com/QX7z5UYOl9</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1060341941366341635?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Supreme Court had allowed bursting of firecrackers from 8 pm to 10 pm only on Diwali and other festivals. It had also allowed manufacture and sale of only "green crackers", which have a low light and sound emission and less harmful chemicals.

The court had asked the police to ensure that banned firecrackers were not sold and said in case of any violation, the station house officer (SHO) of the police station concerned would be held personally liable and it would amount to committing contempt of the court.

But despite the apex court order, there were reports of its violation from many areas long after 10 pm.

(With inputs from PTI)

A day after Diwali a thick haze engulfed the national capital region which recorded an overall Air Quality Index of 319. The AQI at several other places in the national capital reached 999 marks falling in the hazardous category.

A day after Diwali a thick haze engulfed the national capital region which recorded an overall Air Quality Index of 319. The AQI at several other places in the national capital reached 999 marks falling in the hazardous category. The AQI in Satyawati College, ITI Shahdra, Jhilmil Industrial Area, Anand Vihar, Patparganj, Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, RK Puram, Rohini, Dwarka, Okhla were recorded at 999. The complications of breathing in hazardous air quality may lead to serious health effects. Thick layer of smog engulfs Delhi; visuals from near Akshardham Temple. pic.twitter.com/K02CO18o5r — ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2018 × The air quality started deteriorating rapidly from 7 pm. The AQI was 281 at 7 pm. It rose to 291 at 8 pm and further deteriorated to 294 at 9 pm and 296 at 10 pm, according to the CPCB. The particulate matter 2.5 in north campus was recorded at 2000 on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the AQI in several other places of the national Capital region was recorded in the "Very unhealthy" category. The AQI in Gurugram was recorded at 330, Greater Noida 228, Faridabad 448 and 327 in Noida. #Delhi's Anand Vihar at 999, area around US Embassy, Chanakyapuri at 459 & area around Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium at 999, all under 'Hazardous' category in Air Quality Index (AQI) pic.twitter.com/QX7z5UYOl9 — ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2018 × The Supreme Court had allowed bursting of firecrackers from 8 pm to 10 pm only on Diwali and other festivals. It had also allowed manufacture and sale of only "green crackers", which have a low light and sound emission and less harmful chemicals. The court had asked the police to ensure that banned firecrackers were not sold and said in case of any violation, the station house officer (SHO) of the police station concerned would be held personally liable and it would amount to committing contempt of the court. But despite the apex court order, there were reports of its violation from many areas long after 10 pm. (With inputs from PTI)

Delhi chokes after Diwali as several places record AQI at 999

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