The Delhi government has announced a comprehensive ban on the production, sale, and use of all firecrackers, including online sales, until January 1, 2025, to combat severe air pollution during the winter months. This initiative, led by Environment Minister Gopal Rai, is part of a broader 21-point Winter Action Plan aimed at improving air quality in the capital. Despite previous difficulties in enforcement, the ban will be strictly implemented through coordinated efforts involving the Delhi Police, Delhi Pollution Control Committee, and the Revenue Department. The decision, which follows similar measures in past years, comes ahead of the Hindu festival of Diwali and addresses additional emissions from regional crop residue burning. Rai urged citizens to celebrate Diwali with traditional lamps and sweets while refraining from using firecrackers. The government aims to avoid last-minute bans and minimize inconvenience to traders and the public.