National News - India
Delhi's Air Quality Dips to 'Very Poor' Post-Diwali Celebrations
New Delhi: The air quality in India's national capital, Delhi, and its adjoining areas has significantly deteriorated, plunging into the 'very poor' category on the morning of October 21, 2025. This sharp decline is being attributed to the \textensive use of firecrackers during the Diwali festivities on the preceding night, despite appeals for restraint. The city woke up to a thick blanket of smog, with visibility reduced in several areas.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi stood at 346 at 5:30 am on Tuesday. By 9 am, the AQI was recorded at 339. An AQI between 301 and 400 is classified as 'very poor', which can lead to respiratory illness on prolonged exposure. Some areas even reported 'severe' air quality, with Punjabi Bagh registering an alarming AQI of 999, the highest possible reading. Other hotspots with severe pollution levels included Wazirpur (423), Dwarka (417), and Anand Vihar (404).
In response to the escalating pollution, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the Delhi-NCR region. These measures include intensified inspections at construction and demolition sites to enforce dust control norms and the augmentation of public transport services with more CNG and electric buses to encourage cleaner mobility.
"The air quality is expected to deteriorate further into the 'severe' category more widely on Tuesday and Wednesday," a report from The Hindu noted, citing official sources.
The situation has raised serious health concerns among residents, with experts advising people, especially those with respiratory conditions, the elderly, and children, to stay indoors as much as possible and use air purifiers. The long-term health impacts of exposure to such high levels of pollution are a matter of grave concern.
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IMD Issues Alert for Low-Pressure Area in Bay of Bengal, Potential for Cyclonic Storm
Bhubaneswar/Chennai: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert for a low-pressure area that is likely to form over the southeast Bay of Bengal around October 21. The system is expected to move in a west-northwestward direction and intensify into a depression over the central parts of the south Bay of Bengal and the adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal in the subsequent 48 hours.
This weather system is being closely monitored as it has the potential to further intensify into a cyclonic storm. The IMD has predicted enhanced rainfall activity over coastal Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry between October 22 and 24. A 'cyclone alert' has also been issued for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds expected until October 23.
- Expected Formation: A low-pressure area is likely to form over the southeast Bay of Bengal around October 21.
- Intensification: It is expected to concentrate into a depression within the next 48 hours.
- Affected Areas: Coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are on alert for heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea and those already at sea have been asked to return to the coast by October 21. The IMD has stated that a clearer picture regarding the trajectory and intensity of the potential cyclone will emerge after the low-pressure system is formed. State governments in the coastal regions are on alert and have been asked to take necessary precautionary measures.
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Regional Spotlight
Assam: SIT in Singapore for Zubeen Garg Death Probe
Guwahati/Singapore: A Special Investigation Team (SIT) from the Assam Police has reached Singapore to probe the mysterious death of acclaimed singer-composer Zubeen Garg. The team, led by CID Special DGP Munna Prasad Gupta, will be meeting with their counterparts in the Singapore Police Force on October 21 to discuss the ongoing investigation.
Zubeen Garg, a cultural icon in Assam and the Northeast, died on September 19 in Singapore, with the initial cause of death reported as drowning. However, widespread speculation and demands for a thorough investigation from his fans and family led to the formation of the nine-member SIT. The team will visit the location where Garg passed away as part of their investigation.
The Singapore Police Force has stated that their preliminary findings do not indicate any foul play, but a comprehensive investigation is underway, with findings to be submitted to the state coroner in about three months. The Assam government has assured the public of its commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent probe to bring justice for the beloved artist.
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Uttar Pradesh: Investigation Underway in Lucknow Dowry Death Case
Lucknow: Police in Lucknow are investigating the death of a 25-year-old woman, the wife of a Kanpur-based cement businessman, under suspicious circumstances. Her family has alleged that she was a victim of dowry harassment and has accused her husband and in-laws of her murder. An investigation has been launched into these serious allegations, and authorities are looking into the circumstances surrounding her death.
This case has once again brought the issue of dowry-related violence to the forefront. Activists are calling for a swift and thorough investigation to ensure that justice is served. The police have assured that all angles are being explored and that they are committed to uncovering the truth behind this tragic incident.
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West Bengal: Extended Holiday for Kali Puja and Diwali
Kolkata: Schools and many government offices in West Bengal remained closed on October 21, as part of the \textended holidays for Kali Puja and Diwali. The festive spirit continues in the state with Bhai Dooj to be celebrated in the coming days. The holidays have provided a welcome break for students and employees, with families coming together to celebrate the festival of lights.
The state has been witnessing vibrant celebrations, with beautifully decorated pandals for Kali Puja and homes adorned with diyas and lights for Diwali. The \textended holiday period has also boosted economic activity, with markets bustling with shoppers. Authorities have urged citizens to celebrate responsibly and adhere to safety guidelines.
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International Desk
Bangladesh: South Korea Pledges $5 Million for Rohingya Refugees
Dhaka: The Republic of Korea has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh by announcing a contribution of five million US dollars to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR). This financial aid is aimed at providing humanitarian assistance and protection to the over 1.16 million Rohingya who have been living in camps in Cox's Bazar and Bhasan Char since their exodus from Myanmar. This comes after an earlier announcement of 20,000 tons of rice as humanitarian aid.
The UNHCR Representative in Bangladesh, Ivo Freijsen, stated that this contribution is crucial, especially at a time when the needs of the refugees are increasing and aid is being cut. The funds will be utilized to support refugees with disabilities, provide mental health and psychosocial support, and ensure access to clean cooking fuel. The Korean ambassador to Bangladesh, Park Young-sik, emphasized his country's enduring commitment to the humanitarian efforts for the Rohingya refugees.
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Investigation Launched into Massive Fire at Dhaka Airport Cargo Village
Dhaka: An investigation has been launched into a massive fire that ravaged the cargo village of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka. The blaze, which erupted on October 18, caused \textensive damage to the import section of the cargo complex, which houses goods such as garment samples, pharmaceuticals, and other components. The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has estimated that the fire could have resulted in product losses of up to $1 billion.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism has formed a committee to investigate the cause of the fire and to prevent similar incidents in the future. The fire has raised concerns about supply chain disruptions, especially as the country's garment industry is in its peak season for Christmas exports. The BGMEA has urged for an impartial investigation to determine if the fire was accidental or an act of sabotage.
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Pakistan and Afghanistan Agree to a Ceasefire
Islamabad/Kabul: Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire following days of deadly border clashes. The agreement was reached during talks in Doha, mediated by Qatar and Turkey. Both nations have pledged to respect each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif stated that the success of the ceasefire is contingent on the Afghan Taliban's ability to control militants launching attacks on Pakistan from Afghan soil. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for October 25 in Istanbul to discuss the implementation and consolidation of the peace agreement. The international community has welcomed this development, expressing hope that it will lead to lasting peace and stability in the region.
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Sports Update
Cricket: Shaheen Shah Afridi Appointed Pakistan's New ODI Captain
Lahore: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi as the new captain of the One-Day International (ODI) team. He replaces Mohammad Rizwan, who was removed from the captaincy following a string of unsatisfactory results, including the team's failure to qualify for the semi-finals of the Champions Trophy 2025.
Shaheen Afridi's first assignment as the ODI skipper will be the upcoming three-match home series against South Africa, which is scheduled to begin on November 4. The decision to appoint the 25-year-old pacer was made after a meeting of the selection committee with white-ball head coach Mike Hesson. With this appointment, Pakistan now has different captains for all three formats of the game.
"Shaheen Shah Afridi has been named captain of the Pakistan men's ODI team. The left-arm fast bowler will lead Pakistan in the three-match ODI series against South Africa," the PCB said in a statement.
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Women's World Cup 2025: Sri Lanka Edge Out Bangladesh in a Thriller
Navi Mumbai: In a nail-biting encounter in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025, Sri Lanka defeated Bangladesh by a narrow margin of 7 runs on October 20. The match, held at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, went down to the wire, with Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu playing a starring role with both bat and ball.
Opting to bat first, Sri Lanka posted a total of 202, with Hasini Perera top-scoring with 85 runs. In reply, Bangladesh, led by captain Nigar Sultana's 77 and a valiant 64 from Sharmin Akter, seemed to be cruising towards victory. However, a dramatic collapse in the final over, where they lost four wickets, saw them fall short of the target, ending their campaign in the tournament. Athapaththu was the hero for Sri Lanka in the final over, taking three wickets to seal a memorable victory.
- Toss: Sri Lanka Women won the toss and elected to bat.
- Sri Lanka Score: 202 all out in 48.4 overs.
- Bangladesh Score: 195/9 in 50 overs.
- Result: Sri Lanka Women won by 7 runs.
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Upcoming Cricket: Bangladesh vs West Indies 2nd ODI Preview
Mirpur: Bangladesh will take on the West Indies in the second One-Day International of the three-match series at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur on October 21. The hosts will be looking to seal the series after their convincing 74-run victory in the first ODI.
In the first match, Bangladesh's Rishad Hossain was the star with a six-wicket haul that dismantled the West Indian batting lineup. Batting first, Bangladesh had posted a competitive total of 207, thanks to a half-century from Towhid Hridoy. The West Indies, in their chase, faltered after a decent start and were bundled out for 133.
The pitch in Mirpur is expected to be slow and assist the spinners, giving Bangladesh the home advantage. The West Indies will need their batters to apply themselves better against the spin threat to level the series. It promises to be an exciting contest with both teams having a lot to play for.
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References
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