The air quality in the NCR has worsened, leading the Delhi government to order an immediate halt to all physical sports activities in schools and educational institutions. The decision aims to safeguard the health of students and young athletes. Under this directive, all government, government-aided, and private recognised schools in Delhi—including those under NDMC, MCD, and the Delhi Cantonment Board—must follow the instructions strictly. Universities, colleges, and recognised sports associations are also required to comply until further notice.
The decision follows guidelines from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), which said that all sports events planned for November and December should be postponed because of the severe pollution.
On Wednesday, the Supreme Court also asked the CAQM to look into directing schools in Delhi–NCR to delay sports and athletic events during these months due to the dangerous air quality.
Soon after, the Delhi High Court told the government to stop school children from taking part in outdoor sports during the highly polluted winter period from November to January.
While hearing a petition from minor students, Justice Sachin Datta said that the authorities were not doing enough to protect children’s health. He added that the annual sports calendar must be changed to avoid outdoor events during these months, according to ANI. “You can’t call children to damage their lungs. You must change your calendar accordingly,” the court said.
The judge directed the Department of Education to file a status report within four weeks, with the next hearing set for January 13, 2026. Senior Advocate Shyel Trehan, who represented the minor students, pointed out that several outdoor sports events were still planned for this month even though the air quality is very poor.
She reminded the court that the Department of Education is responsible for preparing the sports calendar. Trehan also showed the
