CAQM Invites Air Pollution Solutions for Delhi-NCR
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR has invited proposals from researchers, scientists, and NGOs to develop innovative technological and policy-based solutions to combat air pollution across the Delhi-NCR region. Submissions must be made via recognised Indian academic or scientific institutions by July 31, 2025, with selected projects receiving financial support over a three-year period.
Under Sections 12(2)(vi) and 12(6)(c)(iii) of the CAQM Act, the Commission is authorised to undertake research and innovation to improve air quality. The latest Request for Proposals (RFP) aims to harness this authority by seeking scalable and impactful solutions across multiple pollution sectors in Delhi-NCR, where air quality continues to deteriorate despite seasonal interventions and ongoing restrictions.
The RFP outlines several critical focus areas including vehicular exhaust and non-exhaust emissions, industrial pollution, dust from construction and roads, stubble burning, solid waste combustion, biomass emissions, and domestic pollution sources. Special attention will be given to identifying and addressing pollution hotspots, as well as the effectiveness of technologies and policies aimed at mitigating emissions across diverse urban and semi-urban settings.
Applicants must submit a clear three-year plan that includes technological development, budget details, and performance indicators. The Commission has said it will provide financial aid under both recurring and non-recurring heads, covering costs from personnel to equipment. However, all proposals must be submitted through government-recognised institutions, regardless of whether they originate from individuals, NGOs, or consortia.
Proposals will be evaluated by CAQM’s Project Evaluation and Appraisal Committee, based on implementability, scalability, and potential for replication. The focus will be on real-world outcomes, with an emphasis on delivering solutions that can be integrated into regional air quality action plans. The RFP is seen as a proactive step towards evidence-based policymaking in the fight against chronic air pollution.
As Delhi-NCR continues to battle toxic air, CAQM’s latest move to crowdsource innovative solutions signals a shift toward collaborative and science-driven pollution control. By funding research rooted in technology, policy, and community engagement, the Commission hopes to build a sustainable clean-air future. The July 31 submission deadline offers a critical window for experts to contribute to one of India’s most urgent environmental challenges.
