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New Advisory on School Sports Activities Amid Winter Pollution in Delhi-NCR

As winter approaches, the CAQM has issued a new advisory affecting school sports activities in Delhi-NCR due to rising air pollution levels. The advisory calls for a review of physical sports events scheduled for November and December 2026, emphasizing the need to prioritize children's health. While not a complete ban, the advisory encourages schools to consider air quality when planning activities. Adjustments to competition dates may be made to ensure student welfare, with provisions for those unable to participate on original dates. This initiative follows previous Supreme Court directives aimed at safeguarding student health during high pollution periods.
By Ambika Singh Sep 16, 2026, 11:44 IST

Impact of Air Pollution on School Sports


In light of the increasing air pollution during winter in the Delhi-NCR region, a new advisory has been issued regarding physical sports activities in schools. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has instructed relevant departments in Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh to refrain from planning any physical sports activities or competitions in schools for November and December 2026.



According to CAQM, adjustments can be made to the schedules of previously planned sports competitions during this period as necessary. If a competition must be held, the air quality at the location must be considered at that time.
Focus on Children's Health Amid Poor Air Quality
During the winter months, air pollution levels in Delhi-NCR often reach alarming levels, raising concerns about children's health during outdoor physical activities. This issue regarding school sports activities has previously been brought before the Supreme Court. On November 19, 2025, the court directed CAQM to formulate appropriate guidelines for sports activities in Delhi-NCR schools during November and December. Following this, CAQM convened meetings with education and sports officials to discuss further actions.



Will School Sports Be Completely Halted in November-December?
The advisory from CAQM does not imply a complete ban on all sports activities in schools. The primary focus is on reviewing the timing and scheduling of physical sports activities and competitions. Competitions planned for November and December 2026 may be rescheduled if necessary. Additionally, decisions may be made based on the air quality at the venue at that time.
Ensuring No Harm to Students from Rescheduling
CAQM has also stated that changes to the sports competition schedule should not adversely affect students' interests. If a student is unable to participate in a competition on the scheduled date, they should not face any unfair disadvantage academically or in sports. Consideration may be given to providing such students with opportunities to participate in similar activities or competitions later.


Information Sent to Education and Sports Departments
The CAQM advisory has been disseminated to the relevant education departments, the Sports Authority of India (SAI), the School Games Federation of India, and associated pollution control bodies. Schools and related institutions must now review the proposed physical sports activities for November-December 2026. Based on the air quality situation, changes to the dates, times, or venues of competitions may be necessary.


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