World Bank Report Highlights Air Pollution Impact; Congress Urges Action from Modi Government

The World Bank's report 'A Breath of Change' highlights around one million premature deaths annually and economic losses of about 10% of regional GDP in the Indo-Gangetic plains and Himalayan foothills due to air pollution. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticized the Modi government for alleged denial and urged enforcement of coal power plant emission norms, airshed-based governance, expanded public transport, and stricter pollution standards. Congress also calls for reviewing air pollution laws and expanding the National Clean Air Programme to address the worsening air quality crisis.