Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Ltd. announced that its President of Finance, Rajkumar Bafna, has stepped down. Citing the high pollution levels in New Delhi, Mr. Bafna sent an email to the management stating, "I would like to inform you that due to Delhi Pollution level I m resigning from my position as President Finance." He requested to be relieved “asap” but said he would assist during the transition period. The company accepted his resignation and confirmed he will be relieved from his duties on December 31, 2025. Mr. Bafna had worked with Akums for decades and had recently been promoted to the senior management role just three to four months ago. Akums is a leading third-party drug manufacturer in India, producing formulations for 26 of the country’s top 30 pharma companies, including Sun Pharmaceuticals, Cipla, and Dr. Reddy’s. This resignation is notable as it is probably the first public instance where a senior executive of a listed company directly cited Delhi's pollution as the cause. Delhi’s air pollution is severe. On December 22, 2025, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee reported PM2.5 levels at 526 micrograms per cubic metre—about nine times above the safe limit of 60. Pollution in Delhi NCR has been an ongoing concern, with many residents considering relocation due to health risks. Recently, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said he developed infections within just two days because of the pollution, attributing 40% of the problem to vehicles. The resignation of Mr. Bafna spotlights the harsh reality Delhi’s polluted air poses even to top professionals.