The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) serves as a critical framework for improving air quality in India, particularly in non-attainment cities. However, the national commitment to clean air extends beyond the NCAP, encompassing a diverse array of government policies and programmes. In addition, many of the non-attainment cities included in the NCAP utilise resources from the XV Finance Commission along with funds from several other government initiatives to develop more comprehensive and integrated plans for clean air.

Key initiatives contributing to clean air efforts include:

• Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0 (SBM 2.0) emphasises improving urban sanitation and waste management practices to minimise open burning.

• Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) provides civic amenities to households, develops urban infrastructure such as green spaces, parks and non-motorised urban transport.

• Smart City Mission promotes sustainable urban development, enhances livability and reduces pollution levels.

• FAME-II scheme incentivises the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) to cut down vehicular emissions.

• PM-e Bus Seva initiative aims to bolster public transport networks with electric buses, aiding in the transition to cleaner urban transportation.

• Nagar Van Yojana focuses on developing urban forests, which can improve air quality and create essential green spaces in densely populated regions.

To effectively achieve the ambitious goals of the NCAP, it is essential to further integrate other policies, programmes, and schemes that address various aspects of urban development, energy use, transportation, waste management, and public health. Adopting a holistic approach that views these initiatives through the lens of air pollution can significantly accelerate efforts to improve air quality. By harmonising goals, it could strengthen pollution reduction strategies and implement a more cohesive approach to air quality improvement.

This briefing note discusses existing initiatives that contribute to clean air efforts—whether directly or indirectly—that are critical to the overall clean air agenda but have not been sufficiently recognised, discussed or implemented within broader clean air initiatives.

Sector-Specific Initiatives

Transport Sector

The transport sector plays a crucial role in shaping urban air quality. To achieve national clean air goals, it is essential to adopt an integrated approach that encompasses electric mobility, sustainable public transport, and robust regulatory frameworks. Aligning these initiatives with the overarching objectives of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) is vital for ensuring sustainable improvements in air quality.

Some key initiatives, aside from those already integrated into the NCAP, include the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP), which lays the foundation for transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs), and the Vehicle Scrappage Policy, which seeks to phase out older, more polluting vehicles, promoting a cleaner vehicular fleet and encouraging the adoption of fuel-efficient technologies. The National Policy on Biofuels supports the use of alternative fuels, such as ethanol, in conventional vehicles, contributing to reduced harmful emissions.

Public transport initiatives, like the Bharat Stage Emission Standards and the establishment of efficient systems such as the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) and metro projects, enhance urban mobility while minimising traffic congestion and related emissions. Further, the National Urban Transport Policy (NUTP) advocates for sustainable practices, promoting integrated transport and land use planning that prioritises non-motorised transport and public transit options. Additionally, congestion pricing mechanisms and smart urban transport solutions supported by the Smart Cities Mission can alleviate traffic-related pollution by encouraging shifts from singleoccupancy vehicles to public transport and carpooling. Moreover, various state-level initiatives promoting electric vehicles and clean fuels bolster national efforts to mitigate air pollution by tailoring solutions to local contexts and needs.

Solid Fuel Usage In Domestic Cooking

The burning of solid fuels, such as wood, coal, and biomass, for cooking and heating in households significantly contributes to indoor air pollution and adversely affects overall ambient air quality. The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana plays a crucial role in addressing this issue by promoting the use of clean cooking fuels—specifically liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). By providing connections to households that previously relied on solid fuels, the scheme aims to improve air quality and improve the health of families.

In addition to the Ujjwala scheme, a significant initiative is the GOBARDHAN (Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources) Scheme, launched by the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation. This program focuses on effective waste management through the production of biogas, which not only helps in managing organic waste but also provides a cleaner energy source for cooking.

Together, the Ujjwala and GOBARDHAN initiatives, if leveraged properly, could significantly contribute to improving air quality and could be essential components of a comprehensive clean air strategy.

Industry and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME)

The contribution of the industrial and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sectors to air pollution is significant and cannot be overlooked. While the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) aims to address emissions from these sectors, it is equally important to acknowledge the existence of numerous other government initiatives that can be leveraged to create a comprehensive clean air framework. By synergising efforts across these programmes, robust strategies to reduce emissions from industries and MSMEs, leading to cleaner air and a healthier environment can be developed.

One notable initiative is the Zero Defect Zero Effect (ZED) programme, designed to enhance MSME competitiveness and promote sustainability, transforming these enterprises into national and international champions. Through the ZED Certification process, MSMEs can substantially reduce waste, increase productivity, enhance environmental consciousness, save energy, and optimise resource utilisation, all while expanding their market reach. Further, the MSE Green Investment Financing for Transformation (MSE GIFT) Scheme, part of the RAMP Programme launched by the Ministry of MSME which supports MSMEs in accessing institutional finance at concessional rates for adopting clean and green technologies is also important. This initiative enables enterprises to transition towards more sustainable operations.

The Credit Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme (CLCSS) is one which assists MSMEs in upgrading the technology by offering subsidies for cleaner and more efficient manufacturing practices. The Green Finance Scheme for MSMEs plays a vital role in facilitating access to financial resources for sustainable projects and practices.

Moreover, policies such as the National Policy on Biofuels encourage the use of renewable energy sources within industries, thus reducing reliance on fossil fuels and fostering sustainable practices. The Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) Scheme offers financial incentives for industries that meet energy-saving targets, promoting sustainable energy practices.

Stubble Burning

Stubble burning is a significant contributor to air pollution, particularly in northern India, and the government has launched several initiatives which address this issue but need to be fully integrated to support clean air efforts. Some of the key government initiatives aimed at mitigating stubble burning like Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) which provides financial support to farmers, enabling them to invest in better agricultural practices and technologies, potentially reducing the need for stubble burning as a quick method of field preparation; the National Policy for Management of Crop Residue to promote the use of crop residue for various purposes. The initiatives under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare promote the use of machinery and technology for effective crop residue management. This includes the Custom Hiring Centres, which provide access to agricultural machinery for small and marginal farmers. Further the State Government Initiatives like the Punjab government has introduced several measures, such as Subsidies for Machines: which help in the in-situ management of crop residue.

Conclusion

The pursuit of cleaner air in India, particularly in non-attainment cities, requires a multi-faceted approach that encompasses various sectors. The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) serves as a foundational framework, but its effectiveness can be significantly enhanced through the integration of complementary policies and programs.

This working group will delve into various strategies to leverage existing policies and frameworks with NCAP to achieve the goal of clean air. Additionally, discuss actionable strategies that harness the full potential of integrated approaches to air quality management.