CPCB clarifies NAQI caps at 500 to align with international standards
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Pollution (air, water, plastic)· Prelims·
Environmental monitoring and data integrity: a GS3 and Science & Tech case study.
Why in news
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) clarified that the National Air Quality Index (NAQI) caps at 500 to align with international standards and prioritize cumulative exposure.
Background
The CPCB clarified that the NAQI framework caps at 500 to maintain consistency with international standards. The body noted that discrepancies between official data and private apps are due to differing sensor technologies and methodologies.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyCPCB: Central Pollution Control Board is the statutory body for pollution control in India
- FactNAQI: The National Air Quality Index caps at a value of 500
- S&TThe CPCB stated that discrepancies with private apps arise from different sensor technologies and methodologies
Prelims practice question
With reference to the National Air Quality Index (NAQI) in India, consider the following statements:
- The NAQI framework caps at a value of 500 to align with international standards.
- Discrepancies with private apps are caused by different sensor technologies and methodologies.
- The CPCB is a non-statutory body responsible for air quality monitoring.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)1 and 3 only
- (c)2 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only — Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Statement 3 is incorrect: CPCB is the statutory body for pollution control in India.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the importance of standardized air quality monitoring frameworks in India and the challenges in reconciling official data with private-sector reporting.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Methodological variance: Discrepancies caused by diverse sensor technologies and data collection methodologies
- Policy alignment: Balancing international standard compliance with domestic public health monitoring needs
Keywords: Standardization · Cumulative exposure · Data integrity · Environmental monitoring
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