EnvironmentSource: The Hindu
Air Pollution in India and Control Measures
Tuesday, 1 July 2025
Read Original ArticleKey Points
Air pollution in India poses a severe threat due to the presence of particulate matter (PM) and other harmful pollutants from vehicles, industries, and combustion. This issue is crucial for UPSC aspirants, especially for General Studies Papers 1 and 3, as it impacts environmental and economic policies. Last Updated: 2025-07-01
Key Facts About Air Pollution in India
- Air pollution disrupts the natural composition of the air.
- Key pollutants include PM, CO, O₃, NO₂, and SO₂.
- Pollutants are classified as primary or secondary.
- Primary pollutants remain unchanged in the environment.
- Secondary pollutants form through reactions between primary pollutants.
- PM10 and PM2.5 are significant particulate pollutants.
- Measures to control air pollution include the National Clean Air Programme and Graded Response Action Plan.
- Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) is critical for reducing SO₂ emissions from power plants.
India's Environmental Challenges and Strategies
Air pollution in India is a macro-level environmental challenge that affects public health, economic productivity, and ecological balance. With rapid industrialization and urbanization, India faces significant hurdles in maintaining air quality. The country ranks among the top in global pollution indices, necessitating robust strategies to meet its environmental goals and international commitments.
Related Government Schemes/Policies
- National Clean Air Programme: Aims to reduce PM levels by 20-30% by 2024.
- Graded Response Action Plan: Implements emergency measures in Delhi to combat severe pollution.
- New Commission for Air Quality Management: Oversees air quality management in the NCR region.
- SAFAR Portal: Provides air quality forecasts to inform public and policy decisions.
UPSC Relevance
- GS Paper 1: Geography - Impact of pollution on climate and human health.
- GS Paper 3: Environment - Conservation, environmental pollution, and degradation.
- Prelims angle: Questions on pollutants, their sources, and control measures.
- Mains angle: Analytical themes on environmental policies and their effectiveness.
FAQ Section
- What is air pollution? Air pollution refers to the presence of harmful substances in the atmosphere, primarily from human activities, that disrupt the natural composition of the air.
- Why is air pollution important? It is a critical issue as it affects public health, contributes to climate change, and has significant economic implications, costing India an estimated 8.5% of its GDP annually.
- What are the key features of the National Clean Air Programme? The program aims to reduce PM levels by 20-30% by 2024 through comprehensive measures across 122 cities, focusing on monitoring, regulation, and public awareness.
Detailed Coverage
- Air pollution disrupts the air's natural composition.
- Key pollutants include PM, CO, O₃, NO₂, and SO₂.
- Pollutants are classified as primary or secondary.
- Primary pollutants remain unchanged in the environment.
- Secondary pollutants form through reactions between primary pollutants.
- PM10 and PM2.5 are significant particulate pollutants.
- Measures to control air pollution include:
- 1. National Clean Air Programme.
- 2. Graded Response Action Plan for Delhi.
- 3. New Commission for Air Quality Management.
- 4. SAFAR Portal for air quality forecasting.
- FGD removes SO₂ from flue gas.
- FGD prevents acid rain and protects ecosystems.
- Types of FGD systems include Dry Sorbent Injection, Wet Limestone System, and Seawater-Based System.
- Urgent need for controls due to secondary pollutants affecting PM2.5 levels.
Environment