Awards for Clean Air Day 2026

Key Highlights from Clean Air Day 2026 and 5th Clean Air Survey Awards

1. Event Overview:

   • Clean Air Day 2026 celebrated with the 5th Clean Air Survey Awards, recognizing cities and wards for their air quality management efforts.
   • Organized by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and chaired by Justice Prakash Srivastava, Chairperson of the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

2. National Clean Air Program (NCAP):

   • Launched to improve air quality across 130 cities in India.
   • Aims to maintain air quality within prescribed standards through comprehensive management practices.
   • Cities are encouraged to develop strategies for clean air under the NCAP framework.

3. Judicial Statements:

   • Justice Srivastava emphasized that clean air is a fundamental necessity, not a luxury.
   • Highlighted the interdependence of development and environmental protection, advocating for a collective approach to tackle air pollution.

4. Award Criteria and Participation:

   • Awards based on participation and ranking of 130 cities categorized into three population groups:
     • Less than 300,000
     • 300,000 to 1 million
     • Over 1 million
   • Evaluation involved self-assessment by cities, state-level monitoring, and independent verification.

5. Economic Support:

   • A performance-based grant of ₹16,425 crores allocated to the 130 cities under NCAP for implementing air pollution control measures.

6. Performance Metrics:

   • As of FY 2025-26, 108 out of 130 cities showed improvement in PM10 levels compared to FY 2017-18.
   • 72 cities achieved over 20% reduction in PM10 concentration, while 26 cities recorded reductions exceeding 40%.
   • 14 cities met the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).

7. Best Management Practices Compilation:

   • Release of a compilation showcasing successful air quality improvement measures implemented by cities and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs).
   • Practices include road dust control, vehicle emissions management, industrial pollution reduction, and waste management.

8. Government Schemes and Policies:

   • NCAP focuses on a multi-faceted, coordinated, and scientific approach to combat air pollution.
   • Engages citizens and local bodies to foster public participation in air quality management.

9. International Context:

   • The event coincided with International Clean Air Day, emphasizing global awareness of air quality issues.

10. Future Directions:

    • Continuous efforts needed for sustainable air quality management, with active citizen involvement and innovative technology adoption.

This summary encapsulates the critical aspects of the Clean Air Day 2026 event, the significance of the NCAP, and the achievements in air quality management across Indian cities, highlighting the government's commitment to environmental health.