Special Report: Supreme Court Pauses Aravalli Mining as Gen Z Protests Rise; Weather Extremes Mark 2026 Transition

This special report covers India's dual environmental crises, beginning with severe air pollution in Delhi, where the AQI has exceeded the 1000 mark. In response, the government has made GRAP 4 measures permanent, including the 'No PUC, No Fuel' policy and a ban on non-BS6 vehicles. The personal toll of the toxic air is highlighted by the resignation of finance head Rajkumar Bafna, who cited health issues caused by pollution. The focus then shifts to the Aravalli range, where the Supreme Court has stayed a controversial redefinition of the hills following widespread protests by Gen Z activists in Jaipur. These activists raised awareness about the critical link between potential mining activities, public health, and pollution. Reporters Shreya Chatterjee and Sushant Mehra provide on-the-ground updates on the enforcement of these new environmental regulations.