Air Quality Index — Policy Reforms

Entry	Year	Description	Impact
Environment Protection Rules Amendment	2014	CPCB issued comprehensive guidelines for National Air Quality Index implementation, establishing standardized monitoring protocols, calculation methodologies, and public communication frameworks. This amendment formalized the eight-pollutant system and color-coded categories.	Standardized air quality monitoring across India and enabled systematic comparison between cities and regions
National Clean Air Programme Guidelines	2019	Launched comprehensive framework for air pollution reduction in 344 non-attainment cities with specific targets and AQI-based monitoring requirements. Established institutional mechanisms for coordinated action between central and state governments.	Transformed air quality management from reactive to proactive approach with measurable targets and systematic monitoring