On January 10, 2019, India launched the National Clean Air Programme. Read the full plan here.
The goal of the National Clean Air Programme is to reduce PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations by 20-30% by 2024 using 2017 as the base year.
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In August 2019, twenty new cities were added to NCAP (more). Non-attainment cities (i.e. cities that do not meet the National Ambient Air Quality Standards) were mandated to prepare City Action Plans which were reviewed by a three-member committee, and are now publicly available.
A number of international organizations, including philanthropies and bilateral organizations are working with the national and state governments to address parts of the National Clean Air Programme.
Bloomberg Philanthropies Announces Initiative to Support India’s National Clean Air Program
A breath of fresh air – Norwegian experts eager to contribute to India’s National Clean Air Programme
TERI, SDC launch Clean Air Project in India to reduce air pollution in four Indian cities
Tracking progress
As work began under the programme, individuals and organizations have also begun to track activities.
CEEW and UrbanEmissions have produced a set of infographics summarizing the city action plans (CAPs) mandated under the programme.
UrbanSciences and Carbon Copy have created a dashboard to track ongoing work under NCAP.
CREA is tracking budgetary spending under NCAP (see dashboard)
Media Coverage
2019
All you need to know about National Clean Air Programme
Cities are at the Centre of India’s New National Clean Air Programme
India launches national anti-pollution program, but experts skeptical
National Clean Air Programme: Good idea but weak mandate
102 city air pollution action plans ready but lack regional focus
A year after announcement, work starts for clean air programme
2020
Is India’s national clean air plan on track?
National Clean Air Programme requires teeth and grit to make a difference
With Rs 10 crore for each city, funds for clean air plan short: Experts
National Clean Air Programme leaves out 231 cities with toxic air: Study
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