Delhi Skips Third Cloud Seeding Attempt; Minister Claims Earlier Success Amid Pollution Concerns
Delhi did not conduct a third cloud seeding trial to address severe pollution as humidity levels remained too low for the operation, leading to missed opportunities for artificial rain. Meanwhile, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted progress in India-EU free trade talks. In Assam, a political row erupted after a Congress meeting recited Bangladesh’s national anthem, prompting a police inquiry. In Bihar, BJP leaders accused the opposition of promoting dynastic politics.
On 30 October, Delhi authorities did not proceed with a third cloud seeding exercise to combat persistent air pollution, as conditions—notably inadequate humidity—remained unfavorable for inducing artificial rain. Despite earlier attempts that did not achieve the desired results, a minister asserted that previous cloud seeding trials had contributed to some pollution reduction. The ongoing focus on cloud seeding reflects Delhi’s acute air quality crisis, though technical challenges are hindering results. Separately, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal noted significant advancements in negotiations for a free trade agreement with the European Union, reinforcing the EU’s role as a major export destination for India. Politically, the recitation of Bangladesh’s national anthem at a Congress meeting in Assam triggered controversy, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma ordering a police investigation and the Congress criticizing the ruling BJP’s response as dismissive of Bengali culture. In Bihar, senior BJP leaders campaigned against the INDIA alliance, emphasizing themes of dynastic politics and criticizing previous governance under the RJD.
