NCAP 2.0: A New Era for India's Air Quality Improvement

Over 58 organizations in India have issued a white paper demanding a more robust National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) 2.0. The paper highlights the need for a comprehensive air quality framework that includes rural and urban pollution sources, state-led initiatives, and data transparency for measurable pollutant reductions.

In a collective move to combat air pollution, more than 58 organizations across India have put forward a white paper advocating a revamped National Clean Air Programme, or NCAP 2.0. The document, titled 'NCAP 2.0: Towards an Integrated Air Quality Framework for India,' calls for a broader and more accountable approach to tackling air pollution.

The current NCAP focuses on 130 non-attainment cities, but experts argue that the program should encompass airshed and state levels to consider pollution sources from urban to rural areas. The proposed plan suggests a hybrid state-led model with local bodies and boards to avoid jurisdictional overlap and tailor pollution control measures by state.

The white paper promotes utilizing a more extensive network of cost-effective sensors, in addition to existing monitors, to ensure data reliability. It also emphasizes the need for state-level emissions inventories and scientific modeling to set feasible reduction goals. Additionally, linking budget allocations to concrete pollutant reductions and the introduction of phased PM2.5 benchmarks are among the recommendations to align the program with national development objectives.

(With inputs from agencies.)