The International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies (Swachh Vayu Diwas) was observed on 7th September 2024 in Jaipur. Union Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, and Rajasthan Chief Minister, Bhajan Lal Sharma, led the event. Key dignitaries included Rajasthan’s Minister of State for Environment, Sanjay Sharma, and Urban Development Minister, Jhabar Singh Kharra.
Key Highlights
Swachh Vayu Survekshan Awards: Best performing NCAP cities were awarded under three categories:
- Category-1 (Population over 10 Lakhs): Surat, Jabalpur, Agra.
- Category-2 (Population 3-10 Lakhs): Firozabad, Amravati, Jhansi.
- Category-3 (Population under 3 Lakhs): Raebareli, Nalgonda, Nalagarh.
Municipal Commissioners received cash prizes, trophies, and certificates.
NCAP Achievements: A video showcased improvements in air quality in 131 NCAP cities, and the document “Compendium on Viable Technologies and Practices: Lessons from NCAP cities” was released, providing insights on initiatives for local air quality improvement.
Tree Plantation Initiative: 100 saplings were planted under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign at Jaipur’s Matri Van.
Union Minister’s Address
Bhupender Yadav emphasized the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships for Clean Air Now and lauded the collective efforts of agencies for improving air quality since 2017. He encouraged youth participation in the Ideas4LiFE campaign to submit solutions on themes like water and energy conservation, reducing waste, and adopting sustainable practices.
Chief Minister’s Address
Bhajan Lal Sharma reinforced the cultural significance of environmental conservation, calling for holistic eco-friendly lifestyles. He praised the state’s efforts, including the planting of over 7 crore saplings, and announced future initiatives like electric buses and a ‘Green Growth Budget’ for Rajasthan.
Apex Committee Meeting and Future Actions
Union Minister Bhupender Yadav chaired the 4th meeting of the NCAP’s Apex Committee and planted a sapling in Jaipur. Rajasthan’s actions towards improving air quality, especially in five non-attainment cities, were highlighted.