SSC Stenographer 2026 PYQ — Question 33

Solution: The correct answer is Reduced outdoor activity.
Explanation:
☛ Under the National Air Quality Index (AQI) formulated by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), an AQI between 301 and 400 is classified as 'Very Poor'.
☛ Exposure to 'Very Poor' air causes respiratory illness to people on prolonged exposure and significantly affects sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with heart or lung ailments.
☛ Public health advisories strictly recommend reducing prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion, avoiding early morning and late evening outdoor physical activities, and keeping windows closed to minimize the infiltration of polluted air.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ AQI Categories: The National AQI has six categories: Good (0–50), Satisfactory (51–100), Moderate (101–200), Poor (201–300), Very Poor (301–400), and Severe (401–500).
☛ Monitored Pollutants: The index considers eight major pollutants: PM10, PM2.5, Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Ozone (O3), Ammonia (NH3), and Lead (Pb).
☛ Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): In Delhi-NCR, Stage II of GRAP is enforced when AQI falls into the 'Very Poor' range (301–400).
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ Which organization developed the National Air Quality Index (AQI) in India? → Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
☛ How many pollutants are tracked to determine India's National AQI? → 8 pollutants
☛ What is the numerical range for the 'Severe' category in AQI? → 401 to 500
☛ In which year was the National Air Quality Index launched in India? → 2014
☛ Which statutory body implements GRAP measures in the Delhi-NCR region? → Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)