Clean Air India Program: Government Launches Ambitious Initiative to Combat Pollution

In a bold move to tackle the pressing issue of air pollution, the Indian government has unveiled its groundbreaking “Clean Air India” program. The initiative, launched today by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to implement a series of comprehensive measures to improve air quality across the nation and protect the health and well-being of its citizens.

National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)

The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) launched by the Central Government is a comprehensive and time-bound strategy aimed at addressing air pollution across the nation. With a focus on achieving significant reductions in Particulate Matter concentrations, the program targets a 20% to 30% decrease by 2024, using the year 2017 as a baseline for comparison.

To ensure the success of NCAP, 122 non-attainment cities have been identified based on Air Quality data from 2014-2018. Among these cities are those that are also part of the Smart Cities Mission, as listed in Annexure-I.

To combat pollution effectively, city-specific action plans have been meticulously developed, encompassing measures such as enhancing monitoring networks, curbing vehicular and industrial emissions, and promoting public awareness.

These plans are diligently supervised by both Central and State-level Committees, namely the Steering Committee, Monitoring Committee, and Implementation Committee.

For accurate monitoring of air quality, State Pollution Control Boards play a crucial role in publishing periodic results. Additionally, certain Smart Cities have taken the initiative to establish Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs) which are interconnected with Air Quality Monitors (AQMs), facilitating efficient and real-time monitoring.

Through the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders and the conscientious implementation of NCAP, we strive to create a cleaner and healthier environment for present and future generations.

Clean Air India Program

The Clean Air India program is a multi-faceted approach that addresses the sources of pollution, promotes sustainable practices, and encourages public participation in the mission for cleaner air. Key highlights of the program includes:

1. Green Mobility Initiatives: The government plans to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across the country by providing incentives for EV manufacturers, expanding charging infrastructure, and promoting research and development in green technologies.
2. Emission Control Regulations: Stricter emission norms will be imposed on industries, transportation, and power plants to reduce harmful pollutants in the atmosphere significantly.
3. Afforestation and Urban Green Spaces: The initiative emphasizes creating and preserving green spaces in urban areas to combat the urban heat island effect and enhance air quality.
4. Waste Management Reforms: The government aims to promote efficient waste management practices to reduce open burning and landfill emissions, thereby mitigating air pollution.
5. Public Awareness Campaigns: Clean Air India will be complemented by public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the impacts of air pollution and encourage sustainable behaviors.

National Clean Air Action Plan (NCAAP)

As part of the Clean Air India program, the government will roll out the National Clean Air Action Plan (NCAAP) to tackle regional air pollution hotspots. The NCAAP will focus on specific cities and regions that experience severe air quality issues and will tailor interventions accordingly.

Collaboration and International Partnerships

Recognizing the global nature of air pollution, India plans to collaborate with international organizations and countries to share best practices, access technology, and seek support in combating air pollution on a global scale.

Support from Experts and NGOs

Environmental experts and non-governmental organizations have welcomed the Clean Air India program, acknowledging the urgency of addressing air pollution for public health and environmental sustainability. They have offered their expertise and support in implementing the initiative effectively.

Government Commitment to a Greener Future

Prime Minister Modi expressed the government’s strong commitment to tackling air pollution and creating a greener and healthier India for future generations. He urged citizens, industries, and civil society to join hands in making the Clean Air India program a resounding success.

With the launch of Clean Air India, India takes a bold stride towards a cleaner, more sustainable future. By addressing the issue of air pollution head-on, the government demonstrates its resolve to safeguard public health and protect the environment, setting an inspiring example for other nations to follow in the fight against pollution.