Home / Environment / India Slashes Air Quality Funding Amid Crisis
India Slashes Air Quality Funding Amid Crisis
2 Feb
Summary
- Budget allocation for pollution control decreased by Rs 209 crore.
- Experts criticize lack of targeted approach for critical regions.
- Funding for National Clean Air Programme reduced significantly.
The Union Budget 2026-27 introduced a Rs 209 crore reduction in funding for pollution control, allocating Rs 1,091 crore for the fiscal year. This decrease comes as air quality in Delhi-NCR and the Indo-Gangetic Plains has escalated into a public health crisis. The allocation falls under the Control of Pollution scheme, supporting initiatives like the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).
Environmental experts have voiced strong disapproval, citing a lack of specific strategies for severely affected regions like Delhi-NCR and north India. They argue that emission reduction requires robust policies and financial backing, which they found lacking in the budget. Furthermore, the reduced funding for NCAP and the absence of focused support for electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure were identified as significant misses.
While the budget increases spending in some areas, such as clean energy and regulatory bodies like the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) and Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), experts contend this does not sufficiently address the air pollution crisis. They emphasize the need for stronger measures to accelerate EV adoption and expand charging infrastructure to achieve immediate public health benefits.
