In a powerful display of civic engagement, students and teachers across New Delhi have positioned themselves at the vanguard of the battle against the capital's severe air pollution. This movement marks a significant generational shift, with young citizens actively protesting and driving awareness campaigns, framing toxic air not as an inconvenience but as an urgent public health emergency that threatens their future.
A New Generation Demands Its Right to Breathe
Children and young adults are participating in protests and community actions, motivated by a fundamental need to reclaim the right to breathe safely in their own city. Their involvement stems from direct, personal experience with the health impacts of pollution.
Ten-year-old Meera, who has joined multiple protests with her mother, shared her distressing reality. "Sometimes I find it so hard to breathe," she said. "My friend has severe asthma and has to carry medicine with her. My cousin was recently hospitalised because he couldn't breathe; the doctor said it was because of pollution." Her words underscore a daily struggle unfamiliar to previous generations.
Parents are witnessing this heightened awareness firsthand. Neelam, mother of a 23-year-old, expressed surprise at her child's knowledge. "When we were young, we didn't even talk about these issues. The kids now are exposed to so much, so early, it's a completely different reality," she observed.
Teachers and Parents Voice Health Concerns and Policy Gaps
Educators, facing their own health risks, are speaking out against what they see as contradictory government measures. A member of a teachers' association highlighted the absurdity of the situation during school closures. "Govt says schools are shut, but only students are at home. Teachers are being forced to commute every day," they stated. "We're taking online classes, yet we have to travel in hazardous air, adding more vehicles to already polluted roads. If online teaching worked during the pandemic, why can't it be allowed now?"
Parental groups are amplifying the demand for concrete action. The Warrior Moms collective filed an urgent complaint with the National Human Rights Commission of India, seeking intervention over Delhi's persistently dangerous PM2.5 levels. Their demands are comprehensive:
- Real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) reporting.
- Scientifically defined protocols for school closures.
- Air purifiers in classrooms for young children.
- Strict emission control zones around school campuses.
- Periodic health screenings for students.
- A formal registry to document pollution-linked health issues.
These demands are backed by evidence. Citing studies from the Central Pollution Control Board and academic institutions, the group warned that particulate pollution has established consequences for children's physical and cognitive development, leading to higher rates of asthma, respiratory infections, and reduced lung function.
Institutional Responses and Calls for Systemic Reform
Amid mounting public pressure, authorities are attempting to channel this energy into structured programs. The Directorate of Education announced an initiative for thousands of students to participate in monthly environmental activities, experiential learning, and community outreach. Special "mega-events" are planned around key environmental dates to foster climate-conscious behaviour.
Schools are also adapting internally. Jas Elanjikal, principal of St Michael's Senior Secondary School on Pusa Road, outlined their multi-pronged approach. "We are committed to protecting their health while nurturing a sense of responsibility towards the environment," she said. The school has planted pollutant-absorbing plants, strengthened eco-friendly practices, and expanded awareness programs through clubs, debates, and workshops.
However, many argue these measures are insufficient without systemic policy change. Aprajita Gautam, president of the Delhi Parents' Association, proposed a concrete solution: a 10-15 day "pollution holiday" in winter, coupled with hybrid or fully online classes for all grades. "Children who are unwell or sensitive to foul air should not be forced to attend classes in person... Every year during this season, pollution hits our children the hardest. Many end up needing nebulisers," she emphasized.
The message from Delhi's streets, schools, and homes is now unequivocal. Students, teachers, and parents are collectively refusing to accept toxic air as an inevitable part of urban life. They are insisting that clean air is a fundamental right, not a privilege, and that meaningful, protective action can no longer be delayed.
