India’s winter pollution worsened across major metros in late 2025, with government monitoring agencies reporting sustained deterioration in air quality.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi repeatedly slipped into the 'Severe'  and 'Severe Plus' categories during November and December, triggering stricter measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Air Quality Index (AQI) levels crossed 400 on multiple occasions, far exceeding safe limits.