National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) – An Overview
The National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), launched in 2019 by the Government of India, is a nationwide strategy to reduce air pollution and improve air quality across the country. It aims for a 20–30% reduction in PM10 and PM2.5 levels by 2024, using 2017 as the baseline. The programme focuses on strict mitigation measures, expansion of the national air quality monitoring network, and large-scale public awareness and capacity-building initiatives. NCAP emphasizes inter-sectoral coordination across ministries, integration with the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), and adoption of scientific and technological advancements. Implemented by the Central Pollution Control Board, NCAP aims to create long-term, sustainable improvements in environmental and public health.

