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Clear Cut Health Desk
New Delhi, UPDATED: Sep 07, 2025 10:55 IST
Written By: Janmojaya Barik
Why Clean Air Matters in India
On the 7th of September every year, the world observes the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, which is a global effort to raise awareness about the health and environmental issues caused by the rising air pollution. In India, this day holds particular urgency due to the nature of air pollution issues it faces. With cities like Delhi, Ghaziabad, Kanpur, Talcher, and Patna frequently ranking among the most polluted cities globally, the push for clean air is not something India is new to, and it’s time for everyone to take it seriously.
Why does air pollution in India remain an issue of concern?
India faces a severe air quality crisis. According to the WHO (World Health Organization) and the CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board), over 1.6 million premature deaths in India are linked to air pollution annually, and the numbers will keep rising until we figure out a solution or implement the existing ones properly. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from vehicles, factories, and stubble burning in farmlands continues to choke urban populations by adding impurities and harmful pollutants to the air.
Air pollution in India impacts:
– Respiratory and cardiovascular health
– Productivity and cognitive development
– Healthcare costs and public infrastructure
What’s the government doing to tackle this issue?
To combat this crisis, the Government of India has launched multiple programs, the most notable being the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) in 2019. This initiative targets a 20–30% reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations in over 130 non-attainment cities by 2024.
The Government of India acknowledges this issue as a major cause of concern and has launched multiple programs, the most notable being the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) in 2019. An initiative targets a 20–30% reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations in over 130 non-attainment cities by 2024. Along with these, the govt has introduced many other schemes, such as
FAME Scheme—which encourages electric vehicles to reduce vehicular emissions.
Ujjwala Yojana—Distributing clean LPG connections to reduce indoor smoke.
Swachh Bharat Mission—Improving solid waste and sanitation practices.
Afforestation and Green Urban Planning—which enhances urban green cover.
These clean air initiatives by the Indian government, which serve as a policy backbone, need strong implementation and citizen participation to be successful and stand out amidst the other issues.
How are the CSR and Corporate India driving environmental responsibility in the country?
The role of the private sector is equally critical and, in some areas, more so in improving air quality. Under the Companies Act, 2013, Indian companies must allocate 2% of net profits toward CSR activities,primarily focusing on environmental sustainability and clean air projects.
Some notable CSR initiatives in India truly address these issues.
Mahindra Group: The conglomerate undertakes large-scale afforestation through the Hariyali initiative and promotes electric mobility.
Tata Trusts: It supports rural clean energy adoption by promoting smokeless cookstoves.
Wipro & Infosys: Largely invests in green infrastructure, energy-efficient campuses, and electric fleets.
Blueair India (Unilever): Runs clean air awareness campaigns in schools and urban slums.
These CSR efforts show how Indian corporates are contributing beyond compliance, and it’s possible to align business growth with environmental responsibility.
Contribution of Startups and Innovation for Cleaner Air.
India’s large and diverse startup ecosystem is stepping up with technology-driven solutions for cleaner air, which deserve to be promoted.
Some emerging startups and innovations are proving to be effective.
Ambee & Clairco: It offers real-time air quality monitoring for individuals and institutions.
Carbon Masters: an organization whose mission is to reduce carbon emissions by replacing fossil fuel consumption with innovative, clean energy, low-carbon solutions & products.
Electric mobility startups that create cost-effective, zero-emission alternatives to urban transport.
By integrating data, innovation, and green technology, startups are playing a vital role in India’s clean air ecosystem.
Environmental NGOs and youth organizations are also leading awareness drives across urban India, especially in schools and colleges, to create future-ready citizens who value clean air.
It is to be noted that clean air is a shared responsibility, as the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies serves as a powerful reminder that clean air is a human right. India stands at a pivotal moment where environmental challenges meet technological and economic opportunity.
With strong policy frameworks such as NCAP, growing CSR investment, and rising public awareness, the vision of blue skies over Indian cities is achievable. But it will require coordinated efforts across government, industry, and civil societies, as they are a beacon of change in modern times.
