New Delhi, Oct 26 (UNI) ongress leader Jairam Ramesh today issued a grave warning about the worsening air pollution crisis in India, emphasizing that it has evolved beyond a mere respiratory issue to become a serious threat affecting both brain and body, with wide-ranging consequences for public health and national security.
Sharing stark data on the social media platform X, Ramesh revealed, “In 2023, nearly 2 million deaths in India were linked to air pollution—a staggering 43 percent increase since 2000.” He pointed out that close to 90 pc of these fatalities were due to non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, lung cancer, diabetes, and even dementia.
India’s mortality rate from air pollution stands at approximately 186 deaths per 100,000 people—more than ten times the rate seen in high-income countries, which is 17 per 100,000. “Air pollution contributes to about 70pc of COPD deaths, 33 pc of lung cancer deaths, 25 pc of heart disease deaths, and 20% of diabetes deaths in India,” Ramesh added.
He also drew attention to emerging research linking fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure to brain damage and accelerated cognitive decline. Globally, an estimated 626,000 dementia-related deaths in 2023 have been associated with air pollution—a chilling testament to its far-reaching impact.
“Air pollution is not only a public health disaster but also a national security challenge threatening our society, healthcare infrastructure, and future workforce,” warned Ramesh.
Criticizing current standards, he noted that India’s permissible PM2.5 levels are eight times higher than the World Health Organization’s annual guideline and four times above its 24-hour limit. Despite launching the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) in 2017, PM2.5 concentrations have continued to rise, with every Indian now living in areas exceeding WHO limits.
“We must urgently overhaul the NCAP and update the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), last comprehensively revised in 2009,” Ramesh urged, calling for bold and immediate action to address this escalating crisis.
His call to action comes amid mounting public concern over the pervasive health and economic damage caused by pollution, challenging policymakers to recognize clean air as a fundamental right and national priority. The time for decisive leadership and comprehensive reform is now, if India’s future is to be safeguarded.
