Delhi's average Air Quality Index (AQI) for October reached 166, the lowest in eight years, showcasing the impact of sustained multi-sectoral air pollution mitigation strategies and favorable weather conditions. - **National Clean Air Programme (NCAP):** India's flagship national strategy launched to reduce particulate matter pollution in targeted cities by up to 40% over defined timeframes. - **Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM):** A statutory body established to coordinate, monitor, and manage air quality governance across the National Capital Region and adjoining areas. - **Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB):** A statutory apex organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change tasked with promoting clean streams and air, and monitoring national air quality. **Introduction** Delhi's average Air Quality Index (AQI) for October reached 166, the lowest in eight years, showcasing the impact of sustained multi-sectoral air pollution mitigation strategies and favorable weather conditions. **Core Issue and Detailed Points** - Delhi recorded its lowest average Air Quality Index (AQI) for October in the last eight years at 166 in 2025. - The improvement is attributed to sustained policy interventions, favourable meteorological conditions, and coordinated actions by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). - Proactive measures included better stubble management, dust mitigation, and control of industrial and vehicular emissions. **Key Statutory Bodies, Acts & Concepts** - **National Clean Air Programme (NCAP):** India's flagship national strategy launched to reduce particulate matter pollution in targeted cities by up to 40% over defined timeframes. - **Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM):** A statutory body established to coordinate, monitor, and manage air quality governance across the National Capital Region and adjoining areas. - **Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB):** A statutory apex organization under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change tasked with promoting clean streams and air, and monitoring national air quality.