On 7th September 2024, the Swachh Vayu Survekshan Award event took place in Jaipur, Rajasthan. The event was led by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma. This special event was organized to mark the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, also known as Swachh Vayu Diwas. The awards highlighted efforts to improve air quality in cities across India.
Background of Swachh Vayu Survekshan
The Swachh Vayu Survekshan Award was introduced as part of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), a nationwide initiative aimed at reducing pollution levels in Indian cities. The NCAP started in 2019 to address the rising concerns of air pollution and improve the air quality across the country. The program focuses on reducing PM10 levels, which are tiny particles in the air that can harm human health.
Award Categories and Winning Cities
During the event, awards were given to cities that showed significant improvement in air quality. The cities were divided into three categories based on their population:
- Category-1 (Population over 10 lakhs): Surat, Jabalpur, Agra.
- Category-2 (Population 3-10 lakhs): Firozabad, Amravati, Jhansi.
- Category-3 (Population under 3 lakhs): Raebareli, Nalgonda, Nalagarh.
Municipal Commissioners from these cities received trophies, certificates, and cash prizes for their efforts in reducing pollution levels.
Importance of Clean Air
Improving air quality is crucial because polluted air can cause serious health problems like respiratory issues, heart diseases, and even death. Many cities in India have struggled with high levels of pollution, especially due to industrial activities, traffic, and burning of waste. The Swachh Vayu Survekshan Award recognizes the progress made by cities in tackling these problems and encourages others to follow.
Global and International Impact
India’s efforts to improve air quality are significant not only for its citizens but also for the world. Pollution affects climate change, and by reducing air pollution, India is contributing to the global fight against environmental degradation. Cleaner air will also improve the quality of life for millions of people and reduce the strain on healthcare systems.
Government’s Efforts and Future Plans
During the event, Bhupender Yadav emphasized the need for partnerships between government agencies, industries, and citizens to achieve cleaner air. He highlighted the success of the National Clean Air Programme and praised the work done by various cities. Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma spoke about Rajasthan’s efforts to promote environmental sustainability, including the planting of over 7 crore saplings and plans to introduce electric buses in the state.
The Swachh Vayu Survekshan Award 2024 marked an important step in India’s fight against air pollution. The event in Jaipur celebrated the success of cities that have made significant progress in improving air quality under the NCAP. With the continued efforts of the government and citizens, India is moving towards cleaner air and a healthier environment.
The Swachh Vayu Survekshan Award recognizes cities in India that have made progress in improving air quality under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).
Improving air quality is important because polluted air can cause serious health issues, including respiratory and heart diseases.
Cities are chosen based on their reduction in pollution levels, specifically PM10, compared to the base year of 2017-18
The NCAP is a government initiative aimed at reducing air pollution in Indian cities by taking measures to lower PM10 levels and improve overall air quality.
Air pollution contributes to climate change and can harm ecosystems worldwide. By reducing pollution, countries like India help combat global environmental challenges.