Diwali Celebrations  

Bursting of firecrackers could be heard across Delhi and its neighbouring areas on Diwali night even though a ban was imposed on its sale and use in the national capital region in view of rising air pollution and COVID-19 pandemic.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued with his annual Diwali ritual of spending the day with the forces. Addressing troops at Longewala Post in which he asserted that India will give 'prachand jawab' (fierce reply) if it is provoked. Here are some glimpses of the PM's Diwali celebration with forces.

Amid COVID-19 pandemic, Facebook launched multiple features to add an element of fun to the virtual Diwali celebrations this year.

The NGT said there will be a total ban against sale or use of all kinds of firecrackers in the NCR from midnight of November 9 -10 to the midnight of November 30 - December 1, 2020. The order will also apply to all cities/towns in the country where the average of ambient air quality during November (as per available data of last year) was recorded in the 'poor' and above category.

In his 2 minute 30 second video, UK PM Boris Johnson said: "Just as Lord Rama and his wife Sita found their way home after the defeat of the demon king Ravana, their way lit by many millions of lamps, so too we shall find our way through this, and we shall do so triumphantly."

The green crackers developed by the Indian Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) include flower pots, pencils, sparkles, and chakkar. No doubt that green crackers are environment-friendly and are developed to reduce air pollution that causes health hazards.

The Government of Maharashtra has issued Standard Operating Procedures ahead of Diwali celebrations. The Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi govt has urged citizens to avoid bursting crackers to curb noise and air pollution.
 

Karnataka BJP MLA Renukacharya escaped unhurt but the crowd carrying him was injured as an ox sped through the crowd during Hori Habba festival in Davanagere

A gang tied a firecracker to a dog’s tail and lit it, terrorising the dog. The video has sent shock waves and police are now looking into the matter based on the bike’s registration that is visible in the video. 

Diwali was celebrated with grandeur at Harmandir Sahib shrine in Amritsar with lighting and fireworks that lit up the sky.