On 7th September 2024, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav chaired the fourth National Conference on National Clean Air Program (NCAP) in Jaipur on the occasion of World Clean Blue Skies Day, Swatch Vayu Diva. The meeting was attended by several dignitaries including the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Government of Rajasthan, Shri Sanjay Sharma. The main focus is to review the progress of national, state and city smart work plans implemented in 24 states and union territories (UT) in 131 cities. 19,612 crores have been allocated to 131 cities for implementing urban action plans from 2008-2025 to 2025-26. Currently, Rs. 11,211 crore has been released to these cities to achieve the target of 40% reduction in PM10 levels or meet the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) by 2025-26. The meeting showcased various air quality improvement activities undertaken in the sectors of road dust management, vehicular pollution control, waste management, urban greening, and industrial pollution reduction. The Minister appreciated the creation of 3,776 hectares of Nagar Van/Vatikas under the Nagar Van Yojana in 64 cities, with a sanctioned amount of Rs. 142 crore, and encouraged other cities to utilize the scheme to develop green spaces. He also commended the extensive tree plantation drives conducted under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasizing the importance of integrating Central and State government schemes to address air pollution. He further called for the convergence of efforts and the implementation of proposed reforms in areas such as waste management, vehicular pollution, and public awareness to improve air quality. Minister Yadav highlighted the achievements under the NCAP, noting that 95 cities have shown improvement in air quality, with 21 cities achieving a reduction of more than 40% in PM10 levels compared to 2017-18. Nine cities under Swachh Vayu were recognized for their efforts in curbing air pollution.
The minister also spoke about the recent initiative to establish a coordinated mechanism to tackle cross-border air pollution in the Indo-Gangetic region. Representatives of Union Ministers presented their progress and contribution towards improving air quality. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs discussed the programs under the National Mission on Sustainable Habitat, Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0 and other programs. The Ministry of Oil and Gas focused on expanding gas distribution networks in the city, and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways also emphasized the implementation of the car-free policy. The Municipal Commissioners of Surat, Firozabad and Raisi shared their success stories in the fight against air pollution and emphasized the joint efforts and joint strategies needed to achieve clean air.