Government Initiatives Against Air Pollution's Health Impact

Minister Anupriya Patel informed the Rajya Sabha that no conclusive data links death or disease directly to air pollution. Various initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana and the National Clean Air Programme have been launched to mitigate air pollution and its health impacts, particularly on women and children.

Minister of State for Health Anupriya Patel informed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday that no conclusive data links death or disease exclusively to air pollution.

Air pollution is a key factor for respiratory ailments and other diseases, she noted, though its effects are influenced by factors such as food habits, occupational habits, socio-economic status, medical history, immunity, and heredity.

The government has initiated several measures to address the issue. Patel highlighted schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, which provides clean LPG to safeguard the health of women and children, and the National Clean Air Programme launched in 2019 to reduce pollution levels. Additionally, the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health (NPCCHH) aims to raise awareness and prepare the health sector's response to climate-sensitive health issues. The NPCCHH has expanded nationwide, offering training and generating information on air pollution's health impacts.

Guidelines for air pollution impacts on children's health have been developed and shared with states, and annual health advisories are issued. Community-level health worker training workshops have also been conducted to address children's health concerns related to air pollution, Patel added.

(With inputs from agencies.)