Fine particulate matter, the PM2.5 you hear about in air quality reports, is small enough to settle on the skin and even penetrate it. These particles, along with ozone and traffic-related pollutants, generate what we call oxidative stress.

The day's maximum temperature was recorded at 31.7 degrees Celsius, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

The clearest sign that Delhi is on a path to cleaner air would be a decline in the amount of paddy grown nearby, and therefore the acreage liable to be burned each year.

Delhi's Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said on Saturday that Delhi has recorded 211 days of good, satisfactory and moderate air quality so far this year, its best performance since 2016, except for the COVID-affected year 2020.

Air purifier retailers, meanwhile, said sales have jumped since air quality levels started to dip in August during haze conditions.

Air pollution increases the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Addressing it requires sustained action across multiple sectors, including transport, industry, household fuels and waste management.

An N95 mask filters at least 95% of airborne particles. It uses specialised filter material to trap tiny particles, including many of the fine particles found in polluted air.

India has scored just 2 out of 32 in a global assessment of how countries integrate health into climate action plans. The findings raise concerns about air pollution, extreme heat and the need to protect public health as climate risks intensify.

The body needs a steady supply of essential nutrients to produce immune cells, fight infections and repair damaged tissues. Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, protein and fibre all play an important role in maintaining overall health.

Delhi's construction restrictions aim to reduce dust emissions, lowering short-term exposure to harmful particulate matter near active sites.