The Indian Parliament resumed its winter session on December 18, 2025, marking Day 14 of discussions primarily focused on the ongoing air quality crisis in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR). The session is taking place against a backdrop of increasing public concern regarding the deteriorating air quality, which has been exacerbated by seasonal factors and urban pollution.
The air quality in Delhi and its surrounding areas has been a persistent issue, particularly during the winter months when weather conditions trap pollutants close to the ground. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has reported that air quality levels in the region have frequently dipped into the “severe” category, with particulate matter (PM2.5) levels exceeding safe limits. This has raised alarms among health experts, who warn of the potential long-term health impacts on the population, including respiratory diseases and cardiovascular issues.
During the session, members of both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha engaged in discussions aimed at addressing the crisis. The government has faced criticism for its handling of air quality management, with opposition parties demanding more stringent measures to combat pollution. Lawmakers have called for a comprehensive strategy that includes stricter regulations on industrial emissions, enhanced public transportation systems, and increased green cover in urban areas.
The discussions in Parliament come at a time when the Supreme Court of India has also intervened in the matter, urging the government to take immediate action to mitigate air pollution. The court has emphasized the need for a coordinated approach involving various stakeholders, including state governments, to tackle the multifaceted nature of the air quality crisis.
In response to the growing public outcry, the Delhi government has implemented several measures aimed at improving air quality. These include the introduction of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which outlines a series of steps to be taken based on the severity of pollution levels. Measures under GRAP include restrictions on construction activities, a ban on the use of diesel generators, and the promotion of carpooling and public transport.
However, critics argue that these measures have not been sufficient to bring about meaningful change. The Delhi government has also faced challenges in enforcing these regulations, with reports of non-compliance from various sectors. Additionally, the issue of stubble burning in neighboring states, particularly Punjab and Haryana, has been identified as a significant contributor to the air quality crisis in Delhi. Despite efforts to address this issue, including financial incentives for farmers to adopt alternative practices, stubble burning continues to be a contentious topic.
The implications of the air quality crisis extend beyond immediate health concerns. Poor air quality has been linked to decreased productivity, increased healthcare costs, and a decline in overall quality of life. The economic impact of pollution is significant, with estimates suggesting that air pollution costs the Indian economy billions of dollars annually in lost labor productivity and healthcare expenses.
As the winter session progresses, lawmakers are expected to continue debating potential solutions to the air quality crisis. Proposals may include investments in renewable energy, stricter emissions standards for vehicles, and the expansion of green spaces in urban areas. The discussions are likely to be closely monitored by environmental activists and public health advocates, who are pressing for more aggressive action to combat pollution.
The outcome of these discussions could have far-reaching consequences for public health and environmental policy in India. With air quality issues becoming increasingly urgent, the government’s response will be scrutinized by both the public and the judiciary. The effectiveness of proposed measures will be critical in determining whether the air quality in Delhi-NCR can be improved in the coming years.
As the session continues, the focus on air quality highlights the broader challenges facing urban centers in India, where rapid industrialization and population growth have outpaced infrastructure development and environmental protections. The ongoing discourse in Parliament reflects a growing recognition of the need for sustainable development practices that prioritize both economic growth and environmental health.
