India's Clean Cooking Revolution: A Path to Healthier Homes

Household air pollution from biomass fuels is a major issue in India, contributing significantly to the country's carbon emissions and health burden. Kalpana Balakrishnan from WHO suggests that India is well-equipped to tackle this issue with modest investment. Efforts like clean cooking initiatives are crucial for public health improvement.

Household air pollution from biomass fuels represents a significant challenge and opportunity for India's National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). As highlighted by Kalpana Balakrishnan, WHO Collaborating Centre's Director, reducing this pollution is key to lowering India's carbon footprint and improving public health.

Speaking at the World Health Organisation's second conference in Cartagena, Colombia, Balakrishnan emphasized that India is well-positioned to implement solutions with its existing infrastructure. "With modest investments, significant reductions in ambient and residential PM2.5 levels can be achieved," she said, pinpointing the issue as a cost-effective opportunity for India.

India faces a dual challenge: indoor pollution from solid fuels and external emissions impacting overall air quality. Initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) aim to address these issues by providing cleaner cooking alternatives. Grassroots movements, such as Warrior Moms, further support these efforts, promoting sustainable practices and community-driven change.

(With inputs from agencies.)