DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS QUIZ – 18 December, 2025 –

Explanation:
Recurring winter pollution is caused by structural factors such as fossil fuel use, vehicular congestion, and stubble burning. Temporary measures provide only short-term relief. They do not address the root causes of pollution. Structural reforms help reduce emissions sustainably. Reforms in energy, transport, and agriculture are therefore essential. Hence, option (c) is the most sustainable solution.

Explanation:
Children are highly vulnerable because their lungs are still developing. Outdoor workers face prolonged exposure to polluted air due to the nature of their work. Severe AQI levels can cause respiratory and cardiovascular complications. Elderly people and those with pre-existing illnesses are also at risk. However, continuous exposure makes outdoor workers and children especially vulnerable. Hence, option (b) is correct.

Explanation:
The Precautionary Principle supports preventive action in situations involving serious environmental or health risks. Severe air pollution poses immediate dangers to public health. The WFH mandate aims to reduce exposure before long-term damage occurs. It is taken even without certainty about pollution reduction outcomes. This principle is well recognised in environmental governance. Hence, the decision reflects the Precautionary Principle.

Explanation:
Work-From-Home reduces daily commuting by office-goers. This leads to fewer private vehicles and reduced public transport usage. Vehicular emissions are a major contributor to urban air pollution, especially PM₂.₅ levels. Reduced traffic results in an immediate decline in tailpipe emissions. Other pollution sources remain unaffected. Therefore, the most direct benefit of WFH is a decrease in vehicular emissions.

Explanation:
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is a statutory body created specifically for air pollution control in the Delhi-NCR region. It ensures coordinated action among Delhi and neighbouring states. CAQM has the authority to issue binding directions to governments, industries, and local bodies. It is responsible for implementing emergency measures such as those under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Unlike judicial bodies, it functions as an executive regulator. Hence, CAQM provides the institutional framework for emergency air pollution management.