Global Air Quality Rankings and India's Position
The government informed Parliament that global air quality rankings like IQAir's World Air Quality Ranking, WHO Global Air Quality Database, and others are advisory and not conducted by any official authority. These indices provide guidance but are not legally binding.
India’s Official Air Quality Standards
- India has established its own National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for 12 pollutants, set in 2009, considering its unique geographical and socio-economic conditions.
- The Swachh Vayu Survekshan is conducted annually under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), evaluating 130 cities on air-quality improvement measures.
- Despite WHO's updated guidelines in 2021 for stricter PM2.5 limits, India adheres to its 2009 standards, which allow 60 micrograms per cubic metre in 24 hours and 40 annually.
WHO Air Quality Guidelines
The WHO provides Air Quality Guidelines (AQG) to help countries reduce pollution, emphasizing that clean air is a basic human right. Air pollution accounts for approximately 7 million premature deaths annually.
Delhi's Air Quality Improvements
- "Good to moderate" air quality days increased from 110 in 2016 to 200 in 2025.
- Average AQI improved from 213 in 2018 to 187 in 2025.
- No "Severe Plus" air quality days in 2025.
- Farm fire incidents in Punjab and Haryana reduced by about 90% from 2022 to 2025.
Understanding Air Pollution
Air pollution consists of particles and gases from various sources such as vehicle exhaust, factory emissions, and dust. PM2.5 particles are particularly harmful, linked to severe health issues.
Determining WHO Guidelines
- WHO guidelines are based on global scientific evidence and are updated to reflect new research, with major updates in 2005 and 2021.
- They recommend pollution levels considered safest for health and encourage countries to aim for these targets in policymaking.
