Real policy is not defensive short-term emergency measures but something proactive spanning multiple years, and acting fast, local and through multiple agencies. Every Diwali, a billion people in India wake up to the news of smog-ridden cities in the aftermath of celebratory fireworks. And much like the hangover after a night of drinking, promise ourselves, never again!; that moderation will be the key next time around!, etc. Yet, once again find ourselves in a similar (if worse) situation. And in 2016 again, a year after three infants challenged the Supreme Court to curb air pollution from firecrackers (one of the families has since migrated away from Delhi), are faced with yet another hangover.