April 26, 2026

The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is undertaking extensive preparations to manage a large influx of pilgrims at the Ram Temple complex in Ayodhya, with special emphasis on crowd management, infrastructure development and security arrangements. ANI file photo AYODHYA: The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is undertaking extensive preparations to manage a large influx of pilgrims at the Ram Temple complex in Ayodhya, with special emphasis on crowd management, infrastructure development and security arrangements. General Secretary of the Trust, Champat Rai, on Saturday, shared comprehensive details about the ongoing construction work and the steps being taken to manage footfall at a scale comparable to major religious congregations such as the Kumbh Mela. Ram Temple Trust Prepares For Massive Pilgrim Rush As Ayodhya Eyes Kumbh-Scale Crowds Addressing the media, Rai said the Trust is planning facilities with the possibility of very large crowds visiting the temple on special occasions in mind. He noted that several aspects of pilgrim management are being strengthened to ensure smooth movement, safety and convenience for devotees. According to Rai, footwear management has emerged as a key area of focus due to the sheer number of visitors expected at the Ram Temple complex.Explaining the arrangements being made, Rai said that if situations similar to the Kumbh Mela arise at the Ram Temple, existing systems would need to be expanded severalfold.”Some information has been provided regarding the temple construction. If a scene like the Kumbh Mela appears in the temple, the shoe storage arrangements will need to be increased severalfold. So, shoe rooms are being built at two locations,” Rai said.He further informed that once these facilities are completed, they will be capable of securely storing footwear for around 25,000 people at one time. In addition, the Trust is making arrangements to manage the storage of up to two lakh pairs of shoes over the course of a day.Rai said that these steps are part of a broader plan to prevent congestion and ensure that pilgrims can enter and exit the temple premises in an orderly manner. “This is part of the trust’s preparation,” he added.Referring to the earlier phase of the Ram Temple, Rai said that when Ram Lalla was brought to Ayodhya, the idols were initially placed in a small wooden temple, which is regarded as sacred by devotees. “When Ram Lalla was brought, they were placed in a small wooden temple, and that wooden temple, where they stayed until January 18, 2024, is considered sacred. Construction of a new small temple is also happening there,” he said.Sharing details of security infrastructure, Rai said that a 3.5-kilometre-long boundary wall is being constructed around the remaining temple complex. He added that the design and type of the wall have been finalised based on the standards and recommendations of security agencies, including the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and the Special Security Force (SSF). “The type of wall has been decided based on their requirements. This construction will continue for some time, and we cannot yet say whether it will be completed by 2026,” he added.Rai also informed that Pran Pratishtha Ekadashi will be observed on December 31. He said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has been invited to the occasion and has accepted. “We have invited Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for that day, and he has accepted. When the country’s Defence Minister comes, the Chief Minister might also come,” he added.Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the saffron ‘Dharma Dhwaj’ atop the spire of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya, symbolically marking the formal completion of the temple’s construction.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBhutia hits out at VIP culture, says Messi Kolkata chaos tarnishes India’s imageRam Temple Trust Prepares For Massive Pilgrim Rush As Ayodhya Eyes Kumbh-Scale CrowdsAssam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Slams VIP Culture After Messi Event Chaos in West BengalMessi Lights Up Bandra-Worli Sea Link in Mumbai Ahead of Fan Meet, City Excited to Greet Star”Very Disappointing” Former Captain Bhutia Criticises VIP Mismanagement at Messi Show‘Truly Historic’: PM Modi’s Jordan Visit to Mark 75 Years of Diplomatic TiesCongress Questions BJP’s Renaming Of MGNREGA, Hits Out At Gandhi HatredMessi Event Chaos In Kolkata Triggers BJP Attack On Mamata Over Law Order And MismanagementMessi Event Chaos In Kolkata: Bengal Police Detain Organiser, Refunds Announced‘Namaste Trump’ Era Is Over As India–US Relations Turn Fragile Over Tariffs, Says Jairam Ramesh123PhotostoriesWhat happens when you drink lemon water in the morning for 14 days and other ingredients to add into itWhen props became superstars: Bollywood objects that outshone the actors7-day easy-to-make breakfast recipes for weight loss5 Indian flowers that fill the winter wonderland with a dash of coloursNike Air Jordan 1 to Adidas Yeezy: The 5 best-selling and most desired sneaker pairs of all timesEarly signs of metabolic syndrome most people miss: How to reverse themKohinoor and 5 other legendary diamonds every diamond lover should know aboutLow on Energy? Read This According To Your Birth Date5 everyday habits that unknowingly attract rhodents, insects, lizards into your homeThis actress went from TV star to OTT sensation, has a history with Karan Kundrra, and is now linked to a popular cricket commentator123Hot PicksMukesh Ambani vs Gautam AdaniDonald TrumpAnurag ThakurGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingDelhi SchoolJohn CenaMessi Kolkata EventKyle TuckerMLB Trade RumorsBoston Red SoxDelhi AQIFernando Mendoza MomMessi Event Organiser Satadru DuttaWho is Paige Shiver

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is undertaking extensive preparations to manage a large influx of pilgrims at the Ram Temple complex in Ayodhya, with special emphasis on crowd management, infrastructure development and security arrangements. ANI file photo AYODHYA: The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is undertaking extensive preparations to manage a large influx of pilgrims at the Ram Temple complex in Ayodhya, with special emphasis on crowd management, infrastructure development and security arrangements. General Secretary of the Trust, Champat Rai, on Saturday, shared comprehensive details about the ongoing construction work and the steps being taken to manage footfall at a scale comparable to major religious congregations such as the Kumbh Mela. Ram Temple Trust Prepares For Massive Pilgrim Rush As Ayodhya Eyes Kumbh-Scale Crowds Addressing the media, Rai said the Trust is planning facilities with the possibility of very large crowds visiting the temple on special occasions in mind. He noted that several aspects of pilgrim management are being strengthened to ensure smooth movement, safety and convenience for devotees. According to Rai, footwear management has emerged as a key area of focus due to the sheer number of visitors expected at the Ram Temple complex.Explaining the arrangements being made, Rai said that if situations similar to the Kumbh Mela arise at the Ram Temple, existing systems would need to be expanded severalfold.”Some information has been provided regarding the temple construction. If a scene like the Kumbh Mela appears in the temple, the shoe storage arrangements will need to be increased severalfold. So, shoe rooms are being built at two locations,” Rai said.He further informed that once these facilities are completed, they will be capable of securely storing footwear for around 25,000 people at one time. In addition, the Trust is making arrangements to manage the storage of up to two lakh pairs of shoes over the course of a day.Rai said that these steps are part of a broader plan to prevent congestion and ensure that pilgrims can enter and exit the temple premises in an orderly manner. “This is part of the trust’s preparation,” he added.Referring to the earlier phase of the Ram Temple, Rai said that when Ram Lalla was brought to Ayodhya, the idols were initially placed in a small wooden temple, which is regarded as sacred by devotees. “When Ram Lalla was brought, they were placed in a small wooden temple, and that wooden temple, where they stayed until January 18, 2024, is considered sacred. Construction of a new small temple is also happening there,” he said.Sharing details of security infrastructure, Rai said that a 3.5-kilometre-long boundary wall is being constructed around the remaining temple complex. He added that the design and type of the wall have been finalised based on the standards and recommendations of security agencies, including the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and the Special Security Force (SSF). “The type of wall has been decided based on their requirements. This construction will continue for some time, and we cannot yet say whether it will be completed by 2026,” he added.Rai also informed that Pran Pratishtha Ekadashi will be observed on December 31. He said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has been invited to the occasion and has accepted. “We have invited Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for that day, and he has accepted. When the country’s Defence Minister comes, the Chief Minister might also come,” he added.Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the saffron ‘Dharma Dhwaj’ atop the spire of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya, symbolically marking the formal completion of the temple’s construction.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBhutia hits out at VIP culture, says Messi Kolkata chaos tarnishes India’s imageRam Temple Trust Prepares For Massive Pilgrim Rush As Ayodhya Eyes Kumbh-Scale CrowdsAssam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Slams VIP Culture After Messi Event Chaos in West BengalMessi Lights Up Bandra-Worli Sea Link in Mumbai Ahead of Fan Meet, City Excited to Greet Star”Very Disappointing” Former Captain Bhutia Criticises VIP Mismanagement at Messi Show‘Truly Historic’: PM Modi’s Jordan Visit to Mark 75 Years of Diplomatic TiesCongress Questions BJP’s Renaming Of MGNREGA, Hits Out At Gandhi HatredMessi Event Chaos In Kolkata Triggers BJP Attack On Mamata Over Law Order And MismanagementMessi Event Chaos In Kolkata: Bengal Police Detain Organiser, Refunds Announced‘Namaste Trump’ Era Is Over As India–US Relations Turn Fragile Over Tariffs, Says Jairam Ramesh123PhotostoriesWhat happens when you drink lemon water in the morning for 14 days and other ingredients to add into itWhen props became superstars: Bollywood objects that outshone the actors7-day easy-to-make breakfast recipes for weight loss5 Indian flowers that fill the winter wonderland with a dash of coloursNike Air Jordan 1 to Adidas Yeezy: The 5 best-selling and most desired sneaker pairs of all timesEarly signs of metabolic syndrome most people miss: How to reverse themKohinoor and 5 other legendary diamonds every diamond lover should know aboutLow on Energy? Read This According To Your Birth Date5 everyday habits that unknowingly attract rhodents, insects, lizards into your homeThis actress went from TV star to OTT sensation, has a history with Karan Kundrra, and is now linked to a popular cricket commentator123Hot PicksMukesh Ambani vs Gautam AdaniDonald TrumpAnurag ThakurGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingDelhi SchoolJohn CenaMessi Kolkata EventKyle TuckerMLB Trade RumorsBoston Red SoxDelhi AQIFernando Mendoza MomMessi Event Organiser Satadru DuttaWho is Paige Shiver


Ram Temple Trust makes extensive preparations to manage large pilgrim influx in Ayodhya

AYODHYA: The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is undertaking extensive preparations to manage a large influx of pilgrims at the Ram Temple complex in Ayodhya, with special emphasis on crowd management, infrastructure development and security arrangements. General Secretary of the Trust, Champat Rai, on Saturday, shared comprehensive details about the ongoing construction work and the steps being taken to manage footfall at a scale comparable to major religious congregations such as the Kumbh Mela.

Ram Temple Trust Prepares For Massive Pilgrim Rush As Ayodhya Eyes Kumbh-Scale Crowds

Addressing the media, Rai said the Trust is planning facilities with the possibility of very large crowds visiting the temple on special occasions in mind. He noted that several aspects of pilgrim management are being strengthened to ensure smooth movement, safety and convenience for devotees. According to Rai, footwear management has emerged as a key area of focus due to the sheer number of visitors expected at the Ram Temple complex.Explaining the arrangements being made, Rai said that if situations similar to the Kumbh Mela arise at the Ram Temple, existing systems would need to be expanded severalfold.“Some information has been provided regarding the temple construction. If a scene like the Kumbh Mela appears in the temple, the shoe storage arrangements will need to be increased severalfold. So, shoe rooms are being built at two locations,” Rai said.He further informed that once these facilities are completed, they will be capable of securely storing footwear for around 25,000 people at one time. In addition, the Trust is making arrangements to manage the storage of up to two lakh pairs of shoes over the course of a day.Rai said that these steps are part of a broader plan to prevent congestion and ensure that pilgrims can enter and exit the temple premises in an orderly manner. “This is part of the trust’s preparation,” he added.Referring to the earlier phase of the Ram Temple, Rai said that when Ram Lalla was brought to Ayodhya, the idols were initially placed in a small wooden temple, which is regarded as sacred by devotees. “When Ram Lalla was brought, they were placed in a small wooden temple, and that wooden temple, where they stayed until January 18, 2024, is considered sacred. Construction of a new small temple is also happening there,” he said.Sharing details of security infrastructure, Rai said that a 3.5-kilometre-long boundary wall is being constructed around the remaining temple complex. He added that the design and type of the wall have been finalised based on the standards and recommendations of security agencies, including the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and the Special Security Force (SSF). “The type of wall has been decided based on their requirements. This construction will continue for some time, and we cannot yet say whether it will be completed by 2026,” he added.Rai also informed that Pran Pratishtha Ekadashi will be observed on December 31. He said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has been invited to the occasion and has accepted. “We have invited Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for that day, and he has accepted. When the country’s Defence Minister comes, the Chief Minister might also come,” he added.Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the saffron ‘Dharma Dhwaj’ atop the spire of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya, symbolically marking the formal completion of the temple’s construction.



Source link

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related News

Is there a solution to Delhi pollution? Delhi, the heart of India, is fast turning into a city that cannot breathe. As pollution levels climb — AQI touching 226 (Poor) — the Commission for Air Quality Management has once again triggered Stage-I GRAP, pointing to “unfavourable meteorological conditions”. It’s a familiar script—one that the capital seems unable to escape.This has become a routine now. Air quality deteriorates, GRAP guidelines are implemented, the quality improves, the guidelines are revoked, and then the pollution increases again.The city has seen unparalleled pollution control measures: the odd-even policy, 24/7 online OCEMS monitoring, mechanical sweeping/sprinkling, and strict enforcement of GRAP stages, among others.These measures, however, only prove to be precautions to curb the extreme, not the solution.But is there a solution for Delhi’s pollution? Or are choking lungs the capital’s new, permanent identity?The answer to that question is only logical to discuss once we understand the exact reasons for Delhi’s pollution — and no, it is not just vehicles.The geography of a natural pollution trapDelhi’s location is, quite literally, a geographical trap. Unlike coastal cities, where sea breezes help disperse pollutants, Delhi is landlocked in the Indo-Gangetic Plain.Cities like Mumbai or Chennai experience regular sea breezes that help disperse pollutants. Delhi does not. Instead, it sits in a basin-like region bordered by the Himalayas to the north. This topography restricts the movement of air masses, especially during the winter months.During the winter months, specifically from October to February, a combination of low wind speeds and a phenomenon known as “temperature inversion” creates a lid over the cityWhat is thermal (temperature) inversion?One of the most critical phenomena behind Delhi’s winter pollution spikes is temperature inversion, often referred to as thermal inversion. Under normal conditions, air temperature decreases with altitude. Warm air near the surface rises, carrying pollutants upward where they disperse. This process is known as vertical mixing.However, during winter, the situation reverses:Cold, dense air settles near the ground.A layer of warmer air forms above it.This creates a “lid” that traps pollutants close to the surface.As a result, emissions from vehicles, industries, and other sources accumulate instead of dispersing. According to research by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), particularly their studies on “Seasonal Variability of Air Pollution in North India,” these stable atmospheric conditions are a primary driver of winter pollution spikes, even when emissions remain relatively constant. Additionally, low wind speeds during winter reduce horizontal dispersion, further worsening pollution levels.The source puzzle: What is really polluting Delhi’s air?Public discourse often simplifies Delhi’s pollution problem to a single factor, most commonly stubble burning.While crop residue burning does play a significant role, especially in October and November, scientific evidence shows that pollution is the result of multiple overlapping sources. A comprehensive understanding comes from the CAQM, which released a “Unified Emissions Inventory and Source Apportionment Study for Delhi-NCR” (2023–2024).This study consolidates findings from institutions like IIT Kanpur, TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute), and SAFAR (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research).Key contributors:Secondary particulatesAccording to the CAQM Unified Source Apportionment Study and an IIT Kanpur Emission Inventory Reports, the secondary particulates are not emitted directly. Instead, they form in the atmosphere through chemical reactions involving gases such as Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Sulphur dioxide (SO₂), and Ammonia (NH₃).These gases are released by vehicles, industries, thermal power plants, and agricultural activities. When these gases react under sunlight and atmospheric conditions, they form fine particulate matter (PM2.5).These particles are especially dangerous because they are small enough to enter the bloodstream via the lungs.Vehicular emmissionThen comes the vehicular emissions, which remain one of the largest direct contributors to pollution. Diesel vehicles emit high levels of NOx and particulate matter, while congestion increases emissions per kilometre.According to the TERI data, “Air Pollution in Delhi: Sources and Mitigation Strategies” (2022) and SAFAR’s real-time tracking, older vehicles contribute disproportionately to the total load.Stubble burningThe key culprit that makes headlines every year is stubble burning. This includes crop residue burning in Punjab and Haryana, household solid fuel use, and open burning of waste. While stubble burning is seasonal, its impact is amplified during thermal inversion conditions.Dust particlesDust is one of the most underestimated contributors. This includes road dust due to vehicular movement, construction activities, and bare soil exposure.Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and National Air Quality Monitoring Programme, say that while dust particles are often larger (PM10), they can break down into finer particles and remain suspended in dry conditions. The data further states, industries in Delhi-NCR, including brick kilns, small-scale manufacturing units, and power plants, release significant amounts of SO₂, NOx, and particulate matter.Other sourcesOther Sources also include waste burning, diesel generators, crematorium emissions, and airport operations.The GRAP conundrum: Mitigation vs solutionThe Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is Delhi’s primary emergency response system. It consists of a set of measures triggered based on Air Quality Index (AQI) categories, ranging from Stage I (Poor) to Stage IV (Severe Plus). Measures include halting construction, restricting diesel generators, introducing odd-even vehicle schemes, and school closures.Why GRAP falls shortDespite its necessity, GRAP is often criticised for being reactive rather than preventive. A 2025 policy assessment by CEEW titled “Evaluating Emergency Air Pollution Measures in Delhi-NCR” highlights three key limitations:Despite its necessity, GRAP is often criticized for being reactive rather than preventive. A 2025 policy assessment by CEEW titled “Evaluating Emergency Air Pollution Measures in Delhi-NCR” highlights three key limitations:Delayed Activation: Measures are often implemented only after the air has already reached toxic levels.Temporary Relief: Pollution levels drop only while restrictions are active, leading to a “rebound effect.”Economic Disruption: Construction bans and transport restrictions heavily impact the livelihoods of daily wage earners.In essence, GRAP treats the symptoms of the crisis, not its underlying causes. As long as the baseline pollution remains high, the city will remain one weather event away from an emergency.The path forward: Beyond emergency measuresThe solution lies in reducing baseline emissions year-round, not just during the winter peak. Scientific and policy frameworks suggest a multi-pronged approach:Transition to clean transportAccording to the NITI Aayog “India Electric Mobility Transformation Report” (2023), the expansion of electric vehicles (EVs) and the strengthening of public transport are vital. Phasing out old diesel vehicles and improving the “last-mile connectivity” of the Delhi Metro can significantly reduce the 23% contribution from the transport sector.Industrial decarbonizationData from TERI industrial emissions transition studies suggest a shift to cleaner fuels like natural gas and electricity is essential. This includes the relocation of highly polluting units and the enforcement of stricter emission norms for brick kilns and power plants.Dust control as a priorityThe CPCB guidelines on construction and demolition waste management (updated 2023) emphasise mechanised road sweeping and dust suppression systems. Given that dust accounts for up to 27% of PM2.5 in summer, year-round compliance at construction sites is non-negotiable.Tackling secondary particulatesSince secondary particles form from gases, controlling them requires reducing NOx and SO₂ emissions through better fuel standards (BS-VI compliance) and agricultural reforms to reduce ammonia emissions from fertilisers and livestock.Regional coordinationDelhi’s pollution is not confined to its borders. The CAQM regional action framework reports stress the need for interstate cooperation between Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi. This involves coordinated crop management policies and shared enforcement mechanisms to address the airshed as a single unit.Can Delhi’s air actually improve?Evidence suggests that improvement is possible. During the COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020, Delhi saw dramatic reductions in pollution levels. This unintended experiment demonstrated that pollution is largely human-driven and that rapid improvements are possible when emissions are curtailed. However, such extreme conditions are not sustainable solutions. The real challenge lies in balancing economic growth and urban expansion with environmental sustainability.The CAQM report (2023-2024) notes that while annual average levels of PM2.5 have declined since 2016, the trendline has remained almost flat since 2019. This stagnation suggests that current policies have reached their limit of effectiveness and new, more aggressive structural reforms are required.From Crisis Management to Structural ChangeDelhi’s pollution crisis is not an inevitable act of nature. It is the result of a combination of geographical constraints, meteorological conditions, diverse emission sources, and policy limitations. The city’s current approach focuses on “curbing the peak,” but the real solution lies in “reducing the baseline.”Until emissions are systematically reduced across the transport, industrial, and agricultural sectors through year-round enforcement, GRAP will continue to act as a temporary bandage rather than a cure. Delhi can breathe again, but only if policy shifts from reactive emergency measures to sustained structural reform. This requires political will, scientific planning, and public participation at a scale that goes far beyond seasonal alarm. The question is no longer whether a solution exists—it is whether the city is willing to commit to the long-term changes necessary to implement it.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos“India Expands Global Trade Reach” Union Minister Piyush Goyal On NZ FTAMarathi Mandatory In Maharashtra From May 1 |CM Fadnavis Pushes Language Rule For Auto, Taxi Drivers“TMC Is Protecting Goons In Sandeshkhali” PM Modi’s Big Charge At RallyBJP Destroyed All Good Work” Kejriwal Says Schemes Will Be Scrapped In West BengalAAP Seeks Disqualification Of 7 Rajya Sabha MPs Who Joined BJP, Legal Battle On Anti-Defection LawNSA Ajit Doval Meets UAE President In Abu Dhabi, Holds Talks On West Asia, Energy SecurityIndia Uzbekistan Forces Complete Dustlik 2026 With Seamless Joint Mission ValidationBJP MP Ravi Kishan Alleges ‘Politics of Fear’ in WB, Claims Voters Rising Against Violence & ThreatsDRDO Unveils Next-Gen Armoured Platforms Designed For Multi-Terrain Combat And Rapid DeploymentRahul Gandhi Reacts to Cong Worker Killing in WB, Seeks Strict Action and Justice123PhotostoriesCan a low birth weight increase stroke risk even in healthy adults?Growing persimmon at home? These 5 tips make it surprisingly easy9 foods you should avoid grinding in a mixer grinder’Greenland 2: Migration’ OTT release: Gerard Butler to Morena Baccarin, know all about the cast and charactersUTI symptoms you shouldn’t ignore: How a simple infection can lead to kidney damage5 moments when you should never scold your child (and what to do instead)6 Indian foods that were shaped by the Mughal eraAncient Indian wisdom in modern life: Lessons from the Bhagavad GitaPuffy eyes that won’t go away? Why it could signal kidney trouble, and when to get tested8 surprising benefits of drinking lassi regularly in summers123Hot PicksTamil Nadu ElectionWest Bengal voter turnoutAssembly Election 2026Mamata BanerjeeTamil Nadu voter turnoutAmit ShahPM ModiTop TrendingRaghav Chadha Joins BJPTamil Nadu electionAP SSC Class 10 resultsRRB opens qualificationAIIMS B.Sc. coursesJac Class 12 ResultPatrick MahomesBengal PollsNirmala SitharamanIPL Orange Cap

Is there a solution to Delhi pollution? Delhi, the heart of India, is fast turning into a city that cannot breathe. As pollution levels climb — AQI touching 226 (Poor) — the Commission for Air Quality Management has once again triggered Stage-I GRAP, pointing to “unfavourable meteorological conditions”. It’s a familiar script—one that the capital seems unable to escape.This has become a routine now. Air quality deteriorates, GRAP guidelines are implemented, the quality improves, the guidelines are revoked, and then the pollution increases again.The city has seen unparalleled pollution control measures: the odd-even policy, 24/7 online OCEMS monitoring, mechanical sweeping/sprinkling, and strict enforcement of GRAP stages, among others.These measures, however, only prove to be precautions to curb the extreme, not the solution.But is there a solution for Delhi’s pollution? Or are choking lungs the capital’s new, permanent identity?The answer to that question is only logical to discuss once we understand the exact reasons for Delhi’s pollution — and no, it is not just vehicles.The geography of a natural pollution trapDelhi’s location is, quite literally, a geographical trap. Unlike coastal cities, where sea breezes help disperse pollutants, Delhi is landlocked in the Indo-Gangetic Plain.Cities like Mumbai or Chennai experience regular sea breezes that help disperse pollutants. Delhi does not. Instead, it sits in a basin-like region bordered by the Himalayas to the north. This topography restricts the movement of air masses, especially during the winter months.During the winter months, specifically from October to February, a combination of low wind speeds and a phenomenon known as “temperature inversion” creates a lid over the cityWhat is thermal (temperature) inversion?One of the most critical phenomena behind Delhi’s winter pollution spikes is temperature inversion, often referred to as thermal inversion. Under normal conditions, air temperature decreases with altitude. Warm air near the surface rises, carrying pollutants upward where they disperse. This process is known as vertical mixing.However, during winter, the situation reverses:Cold, dense air settles near the ground.A layer of warmer air forms above it.This creates a “lid” that traps pollutants close to the surface.As a result, emissions from vehicles, industries, and other sources accumulate instead of dispersing. According to research by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), particularly their studies on “Seasonal Variability of Air Pollution in North India,” these stable atmospheric conditions are a primary driver of winter pollution spikes, even when emissions remain relatively constant. Additionally, low wind speeds during winter reduce horizontal dispersion, further worsening pollution levels.The source puzzle: What is really polluting Delhi’s air?Public discourse often simplifies Delhi’s pollution problem to a single factor, most commonly stubble burning.While crop residue burning does play a significant role, especially in October and November, scientific evidence shows that pollution is the result of multiple overlapping sources. A comprehensive understanding comes from the CAQM, which released a “Unified Emissions Inventory and Source Apportionment Study for Delhi-NCR” (2023–2024).This study consolidates findings from institutions like IIT Kanpur, TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute), and SAFAR (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research).Key contributors:Secondary particulatesAccording to the CAQM Unified Source Apportionment Study and an IIT Kanpur Emission Inventory Reports, the secondary particulates are not emitted directly. Instead, they form in the atmosphere through chemical reactions involving gases such as Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Sulphur dioxide (SO₂), and Ammonia (NH₃).These gases are released by vehicles, industries, thermal power plants, and agricultural activities. When these gases react under sunlight and atmospheric conditions, they form fine particulate matter (PM2.5).These particles are especially dangerous because they are small enough to enter the bloodstream via the lungs.Vehicular emmissionThen comes the vehicular emissions, which remain one of the largest direct contributors to pollution. Diesel vehicles emit high levels of NOx and particulate matter, while congestion increases emissions per kilometre.According to the TERI data, “Air Pollution in Delhi: Sources and Mitigation Strategies” (2022) and SAFAR’s real-time tracking, older vehicles contribute disproportionately to the total load.Stubble burningThe key culprit that makes headlines every year is stubble burning. This includes crop residue burning in Punjab and Haryana, household solid fuel use, and open burning of waste. While stubble burning is seasonal, its impact is amplified during thermal inversion conditions.Dust particlesDust is one of the most underestimated contributors. This includes road dust due to vehicular movement, construction activities, and bare soil exposure.Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and National Air Quality Monitoring Programme, say that while dust particles are often larger (PM10), they can break down into finer particles and remain suspended in dry conditions. The data further states, industries in Delhi-NCR, including brick kilns, small-scale manufacturing units, and power plants, release significant amounts of SO₂, NOx, and particulate matter.Other sourcesOther Sources also include waste burning, diesel generators, crematorium emissions, and airport operations.The GRAP conundrum: Mitigation vs solutionThe Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is Delhi’s primary emergency response system. It consists of a set of measures triggered based on Air Quality Index (AQI) categories, ranging from Stage I (Poor) to Stage IV (Severe Plus). Measures include halting construction, restricting diesel generators, introducing odd-even vehicle schemes, and school closures.Why GRAP falls shortDespite its necessity, GRAP is often criticised for being reactive rather than preventive. A 2025 policy assessment by CEEW titled “Evaluating Emergency Air Pollution Measures in Delhi-NCR” highlights three key limitations:Despite its necessity, GRAP is often criticized for being reactive rather than preventive. A 2025 policy assessment by CEEW titled “Evaluating Emergency Air Pollution Measures in Delhi-NCR” highlights three key limitations:Delayed Activation: Measures are often implemented only after the air has already reached toxic levels.Temporary Relief: Pollution levels drop only while restrictions are active, leading to a “rebound effect.”Economic Disruption: Construction bans and transport restrictions heavily impact the livelihoods of daily wage earners.In essence, GRAP treats the symptoms of the crisis, not its underlying causes. As long as the baseline pollution remains high, the city will remain one weather event away from an emergency.The path forward: Beyond emergency measuresThe solution lies in reducing baseline emissions year-round, not just during the winter peak. Scientific and policy frameworks suggest a multi-pronged approach:Transition to clean transportAccording to the NITI Aayog “India Electric Mobility Transformation Report” (2023), the expansion of electric vehicles (EVs) and the strengthening of public transport are vital. Phasing out old diesel vehicles and improving the “last-mile connectivity” of the Delhi Metro can significantly reduce the 23% contribution from the transport sector.Industrial decarbonizationData from TERI industrial emissions transition studies suggest a shift to cleaner fuels like natural gas and electricity is essential. This includes the relocation of highly polluting units and the enforcement of stricter emission norms for brick kilns and power plants.Dust control as a priorityThe CPCB guidelines on construction and demolition waste management (updated 2023) emphasise mechanised road sweeping and dust suppression systems. Given that dust accounts for up to 27% of PM2.5 in summer, year-round compliance at construction sites is non-negotiable.Tackling secondary particulatesSince secondary particles form from gases, controlling them requires reducing NOx and SO₂ emissions through better fuel standards (BS-VI compliance) and agricultural reforms to reduce ammonia emissions from fertilisers and livestock.Regional coordinationDelhi’s pollution is not confined to its borders. The CAQM regional action framework reports stress the need for interstate cooperation between Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi. This involves coordinated crop management policies and shared enforcement mechanisms to address the airshed as a single unit.Can Delhi’s air actually improve?Evidence suggests that improvement is possible. During the COVID-19 lockdowns in 2020, Delhi saw dramatic reductions in pollution levels. This unintended experiment demonstrated that pollution is largely human-driven and that rapid improvements are possible when emissions are curtailed. However, such extreme conditions are not sustainable solutions. The real challenge lies in balancing economic growth and urban expansion with environmental sustainability.The CAQM report (2023-2024) notes that while annual average levels of PM2.5 have declined since 2016, the trendline has remained almost flat since 2019. This stagnation suggests that current policies have reached their limit of effectiveness and new, more aggressive structural reforms are required.From Crisis Management to Structural ChangeDelhi’s pollution crisis is not an inevitable act of nature. It is the result of a combination of geographical constraints, meteorological conditions, diverse emission sources, and policy limitations. The city’s current approach focuses on “curbing the peak,” but the real solution lies in “reducing the baseline.”Until emissions are systematically reduced across the transport, industrial, and agricultural sectors through year-round enforcement, GRAP will continue to act as a temporary bandage rather than a cure. Delhi can breathe again, but only if policy shifts from reactive emergency measures to sustained structural reform. This requires political will, scientific planning, and public participation at a scale that goes far beyond seasonal alarm. The question is no longer whether a solution exists—it is whether the city is willing to commit to the long-term changes necessary to implement it.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos“India Expands Global Trade Reach” Union Minister Piyush Goyal On NZ FTAMarathi Mandatory In Maharashtra From May 1 |CM Fadnavis Pushes Language Rule For Auto, Taxi Drivers“TMC Is Protecting Goons In Sandeshkhali” PM Modi’s Big Charge At RallyBJP Destroyed All Good Work” Kejriwal Says Schemes Will Be Scrapped In West BengalAAP Seeks Disqualification Of 7 Rajya Sabha MPs Who Joined BJP, Legal Battle On Anti-Defection LawNSA Ajit Doval Meets UAE President In Abu Dhabi, Holds Talks On West Asia, Energy SecurityIndia Uzbekistan Forces Complete Dustlik 2026 With Seamless Joint Mission ValidationBJP MP Ravi Kishan Alleges ‘Politics of Fear’ in WB, Claims Voters Rising Against Violence & ThreatsDRDO Unveils Next-Gen Armoured Platforms Designed For Multi-Terrain Combat And Rapid DeploymentRahul Gandhi Reacts to Cong Worker Killing in WB, Seeks Strict Action and Justice123PhotostoriesCan a low birth weight increase stroke risk even in healthy adults?Growing persimmon at home? These 5 tips make it surprisingly easy9 foods you should avoid grinding in a mixer grinder’Greenland 2: Migration’ OTT release: Gerard Butler to Morena Baccarin, know all about the cast and charactersUTI symptoms you shouldn’t ignore: How a simple infection can lead to kidney damage5 moments when you should never scold your child (and what to do instead)6 Indian foods that were shaped by the Mughal eraAncient Indian wisdom in modern life: Lessons from the Bhagavad GitaPuffy eyes that won’t go away? Why it could signal kidney trouble, and when to get tested8 surprising benefits of drinking lassi regularly in summers123Hot PicksTamil Nadu ElectionWest Bengal voter turnoutAssembly Election 2026Mamata BanerjeeTamil Nadu voter turnoutAmit ShahPM ModiTop TrendingRaghav Chadha Joins BJPTamil Nadu electionAP SSC Class 10 resultsRRB opens qualificationAIIMS B.Sc. coursesJac Class 12 ResultPatrick MahomesBengal PollsNirmala SitharamanIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0
File photo NEW DELHI: The appointmen tof M Srinivas as a member of NITI Aayog has set off transition at AIIMS with an interim director likely to be named before govt appoints a full-time head.With his move, there is no immediate clarity on who will take charge. Officials said the selection of a full-time director could take several months, and in the interim, the institute is likely to be led by the senior-most faculty member, in line with past practice.Names doing the rounds include senior faculty such as Dr Nikhil Tandon, professor and head of endocrinology, Dr Radhika Tandon, Chief, Professor of Ophthalmology and Prof Sandeep Chauhan head of cardiac anaesthesia department, though sources cautioned that no decision has been taken yet. “There are established conventions, but nothing is final yet. Typically, the senior-most person is asked to hold charge,” a senior doctor said.Srinivas still had time left in his tenure. Officials said the government is expected to move quickly to ensure continuity.Srinivas, who took charge in Sept 2022, succeeded Randeep Guleria with his three-year tenure no seeing major controversies, though early on the institute faced a ransomware attack that crippled servers. AIIMS Delhi has traditionally favoured internal leadership, with many directors rising through the ranks. Srinivas, too, had prior links with the institute before his 2022 appointment, alhtough he had not applied for the post and was picked from a wider panel considered by the Appointments Committee of Cabinet.About the AuthorAnuja JaiswalAnuja Jaiswal is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India, with an impressive 18-year career in narrative journalism. She specializes in health and heritage reporting, expertly simplifying complex health information to make it engaging and understandable for readers. Her deep dives into heritage topics are well-researched, resulting in captivating narratives that resonate with her audience. Over the years, she has worked in Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh and West UP, gaining diverse on-ground experience that shapes her storytelling.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosNSA Ajit Doval Meets UAE President In Abu Dhabi, Holds Talks On West Asia, Energy SecurityIndia Uzbekistan Forces Complete Dustlik 2026 With Seamless Joint Mission ValidationBJP MP Ravi Kishan Alleges ‘Politics of Fear’ in WB, Claims Voters Rising Against Violence & ThreatsDRDO Unveils Next-Gen Armoured Platforms Designed For Multi-Terrain Combat And Rapid DeploymentRahul Gandhi Reacts to Cong Worker Killing in WB, Seeks Strict Action and JusticeEngine Failure Forces Emergency Evacuation of Swiss Delhi-Zurich Flight; Six InjuredManipur Govt Addresses COCOMI Demands After Protesters Clash With Police During March To CM’S HousePM Modi Condemns Shooting Near White House Dinner, Says ‘Violence Has No Place’Strait of Hormuz to US Elections: Ex-CJI Maps Shockwave of Global InterconnectionSwati Maliwal Launches Fresh Attack On Kejriwal After BJP Switch Over ‘Rs 100 Cr House’123PhotostoriesUTI symptoms you shouldn’t ignore: How a simple infection can lead to kidney damage5 moments when you should never scold your child (and what to do instead)6 Indian foods that were shaped by the Mughal eraAncient Indian wisdom in modern life: Lessons from the Bhagavad GitaPuffy eyes that won’t go away? Why it could signal kidney trouble, and when to get tested8 surprising benefits of drinking lassi regularly in summersFrom not wanting to marry outside her religion to facing mistreatment by senior actors on TV sets: Reem Shaikh gets candidBengaluru–Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper To Hit Tracks From August 1: All You Need To Know7 yoga poses that people with high BP can do safelyHeatwave sweeps cities: What to expect ahead?123Hot PicksTamil Nadu ElectionWest Bengal voter turnoutAssembly Election 2026Mamata BanerjeeTamil Nadu voter turnoutAmit ShahPM ModiTop TrendingRaghav Chadha Joins BJPTamil Nadu electionAP SSC Class 10 resultsRRB opens qualificationAIIMS B.Sc. coursesJac Class 12 ResultPatrick MahomesBengal PollsNirmala SitharamanIPL Orange Cap

File photo NEW DELHI: The appointmen tof M Srinivas as a member of NITI Aayog has set off transition at AIIMS with an interim director likely to be named before govt appoints a full-time head.With his move, there is no immediate clarity on who will take charge. Officials said the selection of a full-time director could take several months, and in the interim, the institute is likely to be led by the senior-most faculty member, in line with past practice.Names doing the rounds include senior faculty such as Dr Nikhil Tandon, professor and head of endocrinology, Dr Radhika Tandon, Chief, Professor of Ophthalmology and Prof Sandeep Chauhan head of cardiac anaesthesia department, though sources cautioned that no decision has been taken yet. “There are established conventions, but nothing is final yet. Typically, the senior-most person is asked to hold charge,” a senior doctor said.Srinivas still had time left in his tenure. Officials said the government is expected to move quickly to ensure continuity.Srinivas, who took charge in Sept 2022, succeeded Randeep Guleria with his three-year tenure no seeing major controversies, though early on the institute faced a ransomware attack that crippled servers. AIIMS Delhi has traditionally favoured internal leadership, with many directors rising through the ranks. Srinivas, too, had prior links with the institute before his 2022 appointment, alhtough he had not applied for the post and was picked from a wider panel considered by the Appointments Committee of Cabinet.About the AuthorAnuja JaiswalAnuja Jaiswal is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India, with an impressive 18-year career in narrative journalism. She specializes in health and heritage reporting, expertly simplifying complex health information to make it engaging and understandable for readers. Her deep dives into heritage topics are well-researched, resulting in captivating narratives that resonate with her audience. Over the years, she has worked in Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh and West UP, gaining diverse on-ground experience that shapes her storytelling.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosNSA Ajit Doval Meets UAE President In Abu Dhabi, Holds Talks On West Asia, Energy SecurityIndia Uzbekistan Forces Complete Dustlik 2026 With Seamless Joint Mission ValidationBJP MP Ravi Kishan Alleges ‘Politics of Fear’ in WB, Claims Voters Rising Against Violence & ThreatsDRDO Unveils Next-Gen Armoured Platforms Designed For Multi-Terrain Combat And Rapid DeploymentRahul Gandhi Reacts to Cong Worker Killing in WB, Seeks Strict Action and JusticeEngine Failure Forces Emergency Evacuation of Swiss Delhi-Zurich Flight; Six InjuredManipur Govt Addresses COCOMI Demands After Protesters Clash With Police During March To CM’S HousePM Modi Condemns Shooting Near White House Dinner, Says ‘Violence Has No Place’Strait of Hormuz to US Elections: Ex-CJI Maps Shockwave of Global InterconnectionSwati Maliwal Launches Fresh Attack On Kejriwal After BJP Switch Over ‘Rs 100 Cr House’123PhotostoriesUTI symptoms you shouldn’t ignore: How a simple infection can lead to kidney damage5 moments when you should never scold your child (and what to do instead)6 Indian foods that were shaped by the Mughal eraAncient Indian wisdom in modern life: Lessons from the Bhagavad GitaPuffy eyes that won’t go away? Why it could signal kidney trouble, and when to get tested8 surprising benefits of drinking lassi regularly in summersFrom not wanting to marry outside her religion to facing mistreatment by senior actors on TV sets: Reem Shaikh gets candidBengaluru–Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper To Hit Tracks From August 1: All You Need To Know7 yoga poses that people with high BP can do safelyHeatwave sweeps cities: What to expect ahead?123Hot PicksTamil Nadu ElectionWest Bengal voter turnoutAssembly Election 2026Mamata BanerjeeTamil Nadu voter turnoutAmit ShahPM ModiTop TrendingRaghav Chadha Joins BJPTamil Nadu electionAP SSC Class 10 resultsRRB opens qualificationAIIMS B.Sc. coursesJac Class 12 ResultPatrick MahomesBengal PollsNirmala SitharamanIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0
Pawan Khera NEW DELHI: Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera, staying lowkey after row linked to Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma and his wife, has moved to the Supreme Court after the Gauhati high court rejected his anticipatory bail plea in a defamation and forgery case the Assam Police registered against him.The Gauhati high court had on April 24 rejected Khera’s plea for anticipatory bail in the case registered against him by the Crime Branch of Assam Police in Guwahati.The case against Khera was registered after he claimed at a press brief that Assam CM’s wife Riniki Bhuyan “holds multiple foreign passports and undisclosed assets abroad”.During the previous hearing, Khera’s counsel, led by Abhishek Manu Singhvi, argued that he was not a flight risk and that arrest was unnecessary, calling the case politically motivated.The Assam government, represented by Advocate General Devajit Lon Saikia, opposed relief, arguing the case involved serious offences including cheating and forgery, not merely defamation. The court had earlier reserved its order after extensive arguments from both sides.The Telangana high court had earlier granted him a seven-day transit anticipatory bail, but the Assam Police moved the Supreme Court against it.On April 17, the Supreme Court had refused to extend transit anticipatory bail protection for Khera, asking him instead to approach a competent court in Assam in connection with a case linked to allegations against the CM Himanta’s wife. What happened in Supreme CourtAppearing for the Assam Police, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta questioned the maintainability of the plea before the Telangana high court, flagging what he called a “patent lack of territorial jurisdiction”.He submitted that the FIR was registered in Assam and Khera had not explained why he could not seek anticipatory bail there.Mehta also pointed out that Khera had sought anticipatory bail in Telangana without clearly establishing his presence in the state, adding that “merely having some property” cannot confer jurisdiction.He told the bench that it was a “complete abuse of process” and a case of “forum choosing”.During the hearing, Justice Dinesh Maheshwari noted that Khera had cited his wife’s residence in Hyderabad as a ground. However, the Solicitor General countered that even Khera’s Aadhaar records reflected a Delhi address, and that occasional travel or property ownership cannot justify jurisdiction, LiveLaw reported.The Telangana high court had earlier granted Khera limited transit anticipatory bail for one week. The court observed that his apprehension of arrest appeared “reasonable and supported by material on record”, while imposing conditions including cooperation with the investigation and restraint from public statements that could prejudice the probe.The Assam government challenged this order, contending that Khera had not demonstrated any compelling reason to bypass courts in Assam, where the case was registered.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosMarathi Mandatory In Maharashtra From May 1 |CM Fadnavis Pushes Language Rule For Auto, Taxi Drivers“TMC Is Protecting Goons In Sandeshkhali” PM Modi’s Big Charge At RallyBJP Destroyed All Good Work” Kejriwal Says Schemes Will Be Scrapped In West BengalAAP Seeks Disqualification Of 7 Rajya Sabha MPs Who Joined BJP, Legal Battle On Anti-Defection LawNSA Ajit Doval Meets UAE President In Abu Dhabi, Holds Talks On West Asia, Energy SecurityIndia Uzbekistan Forces Complete Dustlik 2026 With Seamless Joint Mission ValidationBJP MP Ravi Kishan Alleges ‘Politics of Fear’ in WB, Claims Voters Rising Against Violence & ThreatsDRDO Unveils Next-Gen Armoured Platforms Designed For Multi-Terrain Combat And Rapid DeploymentRahul Gandhi Reacts to Cong Worker Killing in WB, Seeks Strict Action and JusticeEngine Failure Forces Emergency Evacuation of Swiss Delhi-Zurich Flight; Six Injured123Photostories9 foods you should avoid grinding in a mixer grinder’Greenland 2: Migration’ OTT release: Gerard Butler to Morena Baccarin, know all about the cast and charactersUTI symptoms you shouldn’t ignore: How a simple infection can lead to kidney damage5 moments when you should never scold your child (and what to do instead)6 Indian foods that were shaped by the Mughal eraAncient Indian wisdom in modern life: Lessons from the Bhagavad GitaPuffy eyes that won’t go away? Why it could signal kidney trouble, and when to get tested8 surprising benefits of drinking lassi regularly in summersFrom not wanting to marry outside her religion to facing mistreatment by senior actors on TV sets: Reem Shaikh gets candidBengaluru–Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper To Hit Tracks From August 1: All You Need To Know123Hot PicksTamil Nadu ElectionWest Bengal voter turnoutAssembly Election 2026Mamata BanerjeeTamil Nadu voter turnoutAmit ShahPM ModiTop TrendingRaghav Chadha Joins BJPTamil Nadu electionAP SSC Class 10 resultsRRB opens qualificationAIIMS B.Sc. coursesJac Class 12 ResultPatrick MahomesBengal PollsNirmala SitharamanIPL Orange Cap

Pawan Khera NEW DELHI: Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera, staying lowkey after row linked to Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma and his wife, has moved to the Supreme Court after the Gauhati high court rejected his anticipatory bail plea in a defamation and forgery case the Assam Police registered against him.The Gauhati high court had on April 24 rejected Khera’s plea for anticipatory bail in the case registered against him by the Crime Branch of Assam Police in Guwahati.The case against Khera was registered after he claimed at a press brief that Assam CM’s wife Riniki Bhuyan “holds multiple foreign passports and undisclosed assets abroad”.During the previous hearing, Khera’s counsel, led by Abhishek Manu Singhvi, argued that he was not a flight risk and that arrest was unnecessary, calling the case politically motivated.The Assam government, represented by Advocate General Devajit Lon Saikia, opposed relief, arguing the case involved serious offences including cheating and forgery, not merely defamation. The court had earlier reserved its order after extensive arguments from both sides.The Telangana high court had earlier granted him a seven-day transit anticipatory bail, but the Assam Police moved the Supreme Court against it.On April 17, the Supreme Court had refused to extend transit anticipatory bail protection for Khera, asking him instead to approach a competent court in Assam in connection with a case linked to allegations against the CM Himanta’s wife. What happened in Supreme CourtAppearing for the Assam Police, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta questioned the maintainability of the plea before the Telangana high court, flagging what he called a “patent lack of territorial jurisdiction”.He submitted that the FIR was registered in Assam and Khera had not explained why he could not seek anticipatory bail there.Mehta also pointed out that Khera had sought anticipatory bail in Telangana without clearly establishing his presence in the state, adding that “merely having some property” cannot confer jurisdiction.He told the bench that it was a “complete abuse of process” and a case of “forum choosing”.During the hearing, Justice Dinesh Maheshwari noted that Khera had cited his wife’s residence in Hyderabad as a ground. However, the Solicitor General countered that even Khera’s Aadhaar records reflected a Delhi address, and that occasional travel or property ownership cannot justify jurisdiction, LiveLaw reported.The Telangana high court had earlier granted Khera limited transit anticipatory bail for one week. The court observed that his apprehension of arrest appeared “reasonable and supported by material on record”, while imposing conditions including cooperation with the investigation and restraint from public statements that could prejudice the probe.The Assam government challenged this order, contending that Khera had not demonstrated any compelling reason to bypass courts in Assam, where the case was registered.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosMarathi Mandatory In Maharashtra From May 1 |CM Fadnavis Pushes Language Rule For Auto, Taxi Drivers“TMC Is Protecting Goons In Sandeshkhali” PM Modi’s Big Charge At RallyBJP Destroyed All Good Work” Kejriwal Says Schemes Will Be Scrapped In West BengalAAP Seeks Disqualification Of 7 Rajya Sabha MPs Who Joined BJP, Legal Battle On Anti-Defection LawNSA Ajit Doval Meets UAE President In Abu Dhabi, Holds Talks On West Asia, Energy SecurityIndia Uzbekistan Forces Complete Dustlik 2026 With Seamless Joint Mission ValidationBJP MP Ravi Kishan Alleges ‘Politics of Fear’ in WB, Claims Voters Rising Against Violence & ThreatsDRDO Unveils Next-Gen Armoured Platforms Designed For Multi-Terrain Combat And Rapid DeploymentRahul Gandhi Reacts to Cong Worker Killing in WB, Seeks Strict Action and JusticeEngine Failure Forces Emergency Evacuation of Swiss Delhi-Zurich Flight; Six Injured123Photostories9 foods you should avoid grinding in a mixer grinder’Greenland 2: Migration’ OTT release: Gerard Butler to Morena Baccarin, know all about the cast and charactersUTI symptoms you shouldn’t ignore: How a simple infection can lead to kidney damage5 moments when you should never scold your child (and what to do instead)6 Indian foods that were shaped by the Mughal eraAncient Indian wisdom in modern life: Lessons from the Bhagavad GitaPuffy eyes that won’t go away? Why it could signal kidney trouble, and when to get tested8 surprising benefits of drinking lassi regularly in summersFrom not wanting to marry outside her religion to facing mistreatment by senior actors on TV sets: Reem Shaikh gets candidBengaluru–Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper To Hit Tracks From August 1: All You Need To Know123Hot PicksTamil Nadu ElectionWest Bengal voter turnoutAssembly Election 2026Mamata BanerjeeTamil Nadu voter turnoutAmit ShahPM ModiTop TrendingRaghav Chadha Joins BJPTamil Nadu electionAP SSC Class 10 resultsRRB opens qualificationAIIMS B.Sc. coursesJac Class 12 ResultPatrick MahomesBengal PollsNirmala SitharamanIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0
File photo NEW DELHI: The World Health Organization has cleared, for the first time, a malaria treatment made specifically for newborns and young infants—closing a gap doctors have struggled with for years.The drug is a child-friendly version of artemether-lumefantrine—a two-drug therapy in which one component acts quickly to reduce parasites in the blood, while the other stays longer to clear the rest and prevent the illness from returning. It is designed for babies weighing between 2 and 5 kg. Until now, infants with malaria were treated using medicines meant for older children, often requiring dose adjustments that could lead to mistakes, side effects or even harm.The WHO prequalification clears the way for countries and global agencies to procure the medicine for public health programmes, expanding access to a quality-assured treatment for one of the most vulnerable groups. While the immediate impact is expected in high-burden regions such as Africa, the approval also opens the door for countries like India to adopt the formulation through national programmes if needed.“The announcements come as the world marks World Malaria Day today,” the WHO said, underscoring both urgency and opportunity in the fight against the disease.“For centuries, malaria has stolen children from their parents,” said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, adding that new tools are helping turn the tide—but only if countries continue to invest in the fight.In parallel, WHO has also cleared three new rapid tests to improve malaria diagnosis. Current tests detect a protein called HRP2, but in many regions the parasite has evolved to evade detection—leading to missed cases, with studies from 46 countries showing gaps, including up to 80% under-detection in parts of the Horn of Africa.The new tests target a different marker, pf-LDH, which is more reliable. WHO has advised countries to switch if older tests miss more than 5% of cases—a recommendation that could become relevant for India if similar trends emerge.Globally, malaria remains a challenge, with an estimated 282 million cases and 610,000 deaths in 2024. While India has seen a sharp decline in cases over the past decade, the disease persists in some regions.Despite setbacks, progress has been significant: since 2000, about 2.3 billion infections have been prevented and 14 million lives saved, with vaccines and next-generation mosquito nets strengthening control efforts.About the AuthorAnuja JaiswalAnuja Jaiswal is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India, with an impressive 18-year career in narrative journalism. She specializes in health and heritage reporting, expertly simplifying complex health information to make it engaging and understandable for readers. Her deep dives into heritage topics are well-researched, resulting in captivating narratives that resonate with her audience. Over the years, she has worked in Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh and West UP, gaining diverse on-ground experience that shapes her storytelling.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAAP Seeks Disqualification Of 7 Rajya Sabha MPs Who Joined BJP, Legal Battle On Anti-Defection LawNSA Ajit Doval Meets UAE President In Abu Dhabi, Holds Talks On West Asia, Energy SecurityIndia Uzbekistan Forces Complete Dustlik 2026 With Seamless Joint Mission ValidationBJP MP Ravi Kishan Alleges ‘Politics of Fear’ in WB, Claims Voters Rising Against Violence & ThreatsDRDO Unveils Next-Gen Armoured Platforms Designed For Multi-Terrain Combat And Rapid DeploymentRahul Gandhi Reacts to Cong Worker Killing in WB, Seeks Strict Action and JusticeEngine Failure Forces Emergency Evacuation of Swiss Delhi-Zurich Flight; Six InjuredManipur Govt Addresses COCOMI Demands After Protesters Clash With Police During March To CM’S HousePM Modi Condemns Shooting Near White House Dinner, Says ‘Violence Has No Place’Strait of Hormuz to US Elections: Ex-CJI Maps Shockwave of Global Interconnection123PhotostoriesUTI symptoms you shouldn’t ignore: How a simple infection can lead to kidney damage5 moments when you should never scold your child (and what to do instead)6 Indian foods that were shaped by the Mughal eraAncient Indian wisdom in modern life: Lessons from the Bhagavad GitaPuffy eyes that won’t go away? Why it could signal kidney trouble, and when to get tested8 surprising benefits of drinking lassi regularly in summersFrom not wanting to marry outside her religion to facing mistreatment by senior actors on TV sets: Reem Shaikh gets candidBengaluru–Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper To Hit Tracks From August 1: All You Need To Know7 yoga poses that people with high BP can do safelyHeatwave sweeps cities: What to expect ahead?123Hot PicksTamil Nadu ElectionWest Bengal voter turnoutAssembly Election 2026Mamata BanerjeeTamil Nadu voter turnoutAmit ShahPM ModiTop TrendingRaghav Chadha Joins BJPTamil Nadu electionAP SSC Class 10 resultsRRB opens qualificationAIIMS B.Sc. coursesJac Class 12 ResultPatrick MahomesBengal PollsNirmala SitharamanIPL Orange Cap

File photo NEW DELHI: The World Health Organization has cleared, for the first time, a malaria treatment made specifically for newborns and young infants—closing a gap doctors have struggled with for years.The drug is a child-friendly version of artemether-lumefantrine—a two-drug therapy in which one component acts quickly to reduce parasites in the blood, while the other stays longer to clear the rest and prevent the illness from returning. It is designed for babies weighing between 2 and 5 kg. Until now, infants with malaria were treated using medicines meant for older children, often requiring dose adjustments that could lead to mistakes, side effects or even harm.The WHO prequalification clears the way for countries and global agencies to procure the medicine for public health programmes, expanding access to a quality-assured treatment for one of the most vulnerable groups. While the immediate impact is expected in high-burden regions such as Africa, the approval also opens the door for countries like India to adopt the formulation through national programmes if needed.“The announcements come as the world marks World Malaria Day today,” the WHO said, underscoring both urgency and opportunity in the fight against the disease.“For centuries, malaria has stolen children from their parents,” said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, adding that new tools are helping turn the tide—but only if countries continue to invest in the fight.In parallel, WHO has also cleared three new rapid tests to improve malaria diagnosis. Current tests detect a protein called HRP2, but in many regions the parasite has evolved to evade detection—leading to missed cases, with studies from 46 countries showing gaps, including up to 80% under-detection in parts of the Horn of Africa.The new tests target a different marker, pf-LDH, which is more reliable. WHO has advised countries to switch if older tests miss more than 5% of cases—a recommendation that could become relevant for India if similar trends emerge.Globally, malaria remains a challenge, with an estimated 282 million cases and 610,000 deaths in 2024. While India has seen a sharp decline in cases over the past decade, the disease persists in some regions.Despite setbacks, progress has been significant: since 2000, about 2.3 billion infections have been prevented and 14 million lives saved, with vaccines and next-generation mosquito nets strengthening control efforts.About the AuthorAnuja JaiswalAnuja Jaiswal is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India, with an impressive 18-year career in narrative journalism. She specializes in health and heritage reporting, expertly simplifying complex health information to make it engaging and understandable for readers. Her deep dives into heritage topics are well-researched, resulting in captivating narratives that resonate with her audience. Over the years, she has worked in Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh and West UP, gaining diverse on-ground experience that shapes her storytelling.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAAP Seeks Disqualification Of 7 Rajya Sabha MPs Who Joined BJP, Legal Battle On Anti-Defection LawNSA Ajit Doval Meets UAE President In Abu Dhabi, Holds Talks On West Asia, Energy SecurityIndia Uzbekistan Forces Complete Dustlik 2026 With Seamless Joint Mission ValidationBJP MP Ravi Kishan Alleges ‘Politics of Fear’ in WB, Claims Voters Rising Against Violence & ThreatsDRDO Unveils Next-Gen Armoured Platforms Designed For Multi-Terrain Combat And Rapid DeploymentRahul Gandhi Reacts to Cong Worker Killing in WB, Seeks Strict Action and JusticeEngine Failure Forces Emergency Evacuation of Swiss Delhi-Zurich Flight; Six InjuredManipur Govt Addresses COCOMI Demands After Protesters Clash With Police During March To CM’S HousePM Modi Condemns Shooting Near White House Dinner, Says ‘Violence Has No Place’Strait of Hormuz to US Elections: Ex-CJI Maps Shockwave of Global Interconnection123PhotostoriesUTI symptoms you shouldn’t ignore: How a simple infection can lead to kidney damage5 moments when you should never scold your child (and what to do instead)6 Indian foods that were shaped by the Mughal eraAncient Indian wisdom in modern life: Lessons from the Bhagavad GitaPuffy eyes that won’t go away? Why it could signal kidney trouble, and when to get tested8 surprising benefits of drinking lassi regularly in summersFrom not wanting to marry outside her religion to facing mistreatment by senior actors on TV sets: Reem Shaikh gets candidBengaluru–Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper To Hit Tracks From August 1: All You Need To Know7 yoga poses that people with high BP can do safelyHeatwave sweeps cities: What to expect ahead?123Hot PicksTamil Nadu ElectionWest Bengal voter turnoutAssembly Election 2026Mamata BanerjeeTamil Nadu voter turnoutAmit ShahPM ModiTop TrendingRaghav Chadha Joins BJPTamil Nadu electionAP SSC Class 10 resultsRRB opens qualificationAIIMS B.Sc. coursesJac Class 12 ResultPatrick MahomesBengal PollsNirmala SitharamanIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0