Celebrate without harming environment: President Kovind

With air quality worsening in the national capital, President Ram Nath Kovind urged social organisations to spread awareness about celebrating festivals without harming the environment.

"It is time for winter festivals. In such times, people in cities like Delhi experience breathing problems due to increase in pollution level. Social organisations should create awareness among people about celebrating festivals without affecting the environment and maintaining peace and harmony," he said while addressing the gathering after inaugurating the International Arya Mahasammelan 2018

The air quality in the national capital region has witnessed a considerable dip in the past few weeks.

The deterioration of air quality comes after hundreds of effigies were burned in the capital on Dussehra, aided by firecrackers, even after repeated appeals by authorities to conduct eco-friendly celebrations.

It is believed that the pollution level has exacerbated as farmers in the neighbouring states are burning crop residue in preparation for new planting.