The CAQM has directed Delhi and NCR governments to avoid organising physical sports activities and competitions during November and December due to air quality concerns.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has directed the Delhi government and governments of other NCR states to ensure that no physical sporting activities or competitions are organised during November and December, citing air quality trends during the period.
CAQM issued a similar direction last year following the Supreme Court’s order. In an order dated September 10, the commission said that competitions already scheduled during the period may be postponed. It also directed that students who are unable to participate because of the rescheduling should not be unduly disadvantaged.
“The govts should explore ways to reschedule such events or provide alternative opportunities for students to engage in similar activities at appropriate time, without compromising their health or academic progress,” CAQM said in its order.
The Supreme Court had last year raised concerns over the impact of poor and severe air quality on children taking part in sports competitions organised by schools.
According to CAQM, “The Supreme Court vide its order dated Nov 19, 2025, asked the Commission to issue appropriate directions to schools in Delhi-NCR to postpone sports and games competitions scheduled for Nov and Dec in view of the potential adverse health effects, especially on children, arising from participation in physical sports competitions held during the periods of adverse air quality.”