Delhi Pollution: The capital’s air has plunged to severe levels, with readings nearing 500 as smog thickens ahead of Diwali. Parents are calling for school closures, while officials face scrutiny over pollution sources beyond farm fires and fireworks. Security at Sea: The Indian Navy rescued 20 crew members and recaptured a hijacked Iranian vessel from Somali pirates. Separately, another Indian national wounded in the Riyadh airport attack has died, taking the attack’s death toll to 14. Energy and Payments: The Union Cabinet approved a $1.53 billion programme to develop energy-storage projects. UPI also set a record in October, processing 25.47 billion transactions worth ₹31.53 lakh crore. Sports: India opened its ODI series in New Zealand with a win, as Virat Kohli scored 74. Indian shooters also claimed team gold in the men’s 50-metre pistol event at the World Championships. Delhi Courts: The High Court sought responses from CBSE and other authorities on a plea to allow basic calculators in Class XII board exams.