Does anyone have reliable information about the current status of the Taj Mahal restoration? Specifically, I would like to know what the scaffolding is like currently and what it might be like in mid-February.

The scaffolding have started removing from the back of the Tajmahal. People visiting the Mehtab Bagh will have a better view from there now.
At the moment they are working on the west face of the Tajmahal. Along with that the scaffolding from the north face (back side) have started coming down. However the dome is yet to be cleaned. They have not started working on it yet.
When you will visit in February they may be working on the dome. But on which side is not clear at the moment. Will let you know as I will keep getting the information.

Hi,

I'm thinking of going to India on the November 23rd, do you think it will be done by then?

No scaffolding at all on Feb 3/18 although I am not sure if there are plans for further cleaning in future.