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CAQM Directs NCR States to Launch Targeted Anti-Pollution Public Campaigns

The Commission for Air Quality Management has issued a new framework directing NCR states and Delhi to implement targeted public awareness campaigns to tackle region-specific sources of air pollution. The directive emphasizes a shift from seasonal measures to sustained, year-round engagement using multi-channel approaches tailored to key pollution contributors. This move follows a recent Supreme Court hearing where authorities were pulled up over Delhi's persistent air quality crisis. States are now required to prepare detailed IEC action plans and designate nodal agencies for coordination.

Key Points: CAQM Issues New IEC Framework for NCR Air Pollution Control

  • New IEC framework for NCR states
  • Focus on dominant pollution sources
  • Multi-channel public outreach mandated
  • Follows Supreme Court directives
  • Requires state-level action plans
2 min read

CAQM issues new IEC framework, directs NCR states to intensify targeted anti-pollution campaigns

CAQM directs Delhi-NCR states to intensify targeted public awareness campaigns on air pollution sources like vehicles and dust, following Supreme Court orders.

"The Commission advises all NCR States and GNCTD to direct the concerned agencies... to plan, implement and intensify targeted IEC campaign - CAQM"

New Delhi, March 3

The Commission for Air Quality Management has issued a framework directing NCR States and the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi to roll out targeted Information, Education and Communication campaigns aimed at tackling region-specific sources of air pollution.

The move seeks to institutionalise sustained public engagement as a core pillar of pollution control strategy across Delhi-NCR, shifting focus from seasonal firefighting to year-round behavioural change and awareness.

In its latest advisory, the Commission said, "The Commission advises all NCR States and GNCTD to direct the concerned agencies in the region to plan, implement and intensify targeted IEC campaign, aligned with the dominant sources of air pollution." It stressed that outreach efforts must be tailored to key contributors such as vehicular emissions, construction dust, biomass burning and industrial pollution.

The CAQM emphasised that IEC activities should adopt a multi-channel approach, including print, electronic and digital media, social media platforms, and community-level programmes. Engagements with Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), farmers' groups, transport unions, market associations and other stakeholders have been specifically recommended to ensure wider participation. States have also been encouraged to adopt innovative outreach models to maximise impact.

"NCR States and GNCTD are advised to prepare detailed State-level IEC Action Plans as per the above Framework and designate a nodal Department/Agency at the State level for coordination of IEC activities," the Commission said. It further directed all Municipal Corporations and Development Authorities that have submitted Annual Action Plans for 2026 to also prepare dedicated IEC Action Plans for implementation throughout the year in their respective jurisdictions.

The directive comes a week after the Supreme Court pulled up authorities over Delhi's persistent air quality crisis. A bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant directed the GNCTD to file a detailed action plan to operationalise CAQM's recommendations. The Court also asked the Ministry of Environment and Power to propose shifting all coal-based industries out of Delhi-NCR, identifying affected units and alternative fuel sources.

Neighbouring states, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Rajasthan, have been instructed to issue public notices inviting stakeholder suggestions, including from coal-based industries, and incorporate them into action-taken reports.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Good step, but awareness alone won't solve the problem. We need strict enforcement against illegal construction waste dumping and old, polluting vehicles. Public notices are fine, but where are the concrete penalties for non-compliance?
R
Rohit P
Engaging RWAs is a smart move. Change has to start at the local colony level. If our RWA can run campaigns on waste segregation and discourage burning of leaves/garbage, it will make a real difference. Hope they provide proper support and funds.
S
Sarah B
As a long-term resident, I've seen many plans come and go. The multi-channel approach sounds comprehensive, but the real test is reaching the farmers in Haryana and UP about stubble burning. That needs a very specific, respectful, and practical campaign.
V
Vikram M
Shifting coal-based industries is a massive undertaking mentioned in the article. While important, it will take years. In the meantime, targeted IEC for things we can control now—like dust from construction sites—is essential. Let's not wait for the perfect solution.
N
Nikhil C
The Supreme Court's push is what made this happen. Sometimes it feels like our authorities only act under judicial pressure. I appreciate the framework, but I hope this becomes a proactive, institutional habit and not just a one-time response to the court.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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