Mon Nov 18 15:00:00 UTC 2024: ## PM Modi Meets Biden at G20 Summit, Air Pollution Cripples Delhi

**New Delhi, [Date]:** Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with US President Joe Biden during the G20 summit in Brazil, sharing photos of his meetings with other world leaders. Meanwhile, severe air pollution continues to grip Delhi and surrounding areas, prompting widespread disruptions.

Schools from classes 1 to 5 will be closed in Gurugram due to rising pollution levels. The Delhi government has also adjusted office timings. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi expressed concern over the worsening air quality, blaming stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. The Supreme Court has suggested that states should consider closing schools up to class 12. Delhi’s AQI soared to 481, categorized as “severe,” leading to flight diversions and delays at the Indira Gandhi International Airport. Robert Vadra criticized both the AAP and BJP for their handling of the crisis.

Other news includes:

* **Elections:** The Election Commission seized assets worth over ₹1000 crore during the Maharashtra and Jharkhand elections, which are scheduled for November 20th. Campaigning has concluded.
* **Political Shifts:** A former AAP MLA, Sumesh Shaukeen, joined the Congress, while Kailash Gahlot resigned from AAP and joined BJP. The BJP also suspended 15 senior students in a medical college ragging case in Maharashtra.
* **Violence and Protests:** Internet restrictions were extended in Manipur’s violence-affected districts. Farmers plan a march to Delhi on December 6th. The central government is sending 50 additional CAPF companies to Manipur, following a recent incident of violence at BJP and Congress offices in Jiribam, resulting in one death. The UP government will present its case in the High Court regarding the demolition of houses of those accused in Bahraich violence.
* **International News:** Gangster Anmol Bishnoi was apprehended in California. Canada’s Trudeau government admitted to mistakes in its immigration policy. A hospital fire in Jhansi prompted a high-level meeting in Lucknow. The Chhattisgarh Assembly’s winter session is scheduled for December 16-20. Lebanon was hit by an Israeli attack. Pakistan criticized the US for letters supporting the release of Imran Khan.

The G20 summit, along with the escalating pollution crisis and political developments in India, dominated the news cycle. The situation in Manipur continues to be volatile.

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