Sun Nov 02 19:12:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text:
Delhi Chokes as Air Quality Plummets; Cloud Seeding Sparks Political Firestorm
NEW DELHI – Delhi’s air quality plunged into the “very poor” category on Sunday, November 2, 2025, prompting a fierce political battle over the government’s response. Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Jairam Ramesh criticized the BJP government’s handling of the crisis, specifically targeting the recent cloud-seeding experiment aimed at mitigating pollution.
Ramesh labeled the cloud-seeding effort a “cruel joke,” questioning its scientific efficacy and suggesting it was a publicity stunt. He highlighted the ₹34 crore investment despite doubts raised by experts. Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa defended the experiment as a worthwhile exploration, especially when it is being carried out by an organisation as reputed as IIT Kanpur and are as cost-efficient as the present trials.. He also accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of spreading misinformation to undermine the BJP government’s efforts. He noted that even without rain, cloud seeding had resulted in a reduction of Air Quality Index (AQI).
Vadra echoed concerns, calling for immediate action to address the “filthy smog” and its impact on vulnerable populations. She urged the central and state governments to collaborate and take action.
The controversy comes amid ongoing criticism from AAP, which has not only attacked the cloud-seeding trials but also accused the government of manipulating AQI data. The current Delhi Chief Minister, Rekha Gupta, denied any tampering with the air quality data.
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