Cse In News

Industrial Pollution

Punjab: Torrent Power to acquire Nabha Power plant from L&T, sold for Rs 6,889 crore

Last year, NPL achieved its highest-ever plant availability factor of 95 percent. The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), a research and advocacy organisation, too, had named NPL’s Rajpura facility as India’s best-performing supercritical coal-based thermal power plant in terms of emission intensity (in plants having less than 800 MW capacity). Torrent Power has entered into an agreement with Larsen & Toubro to acquire a 100 percent stake from the latter in Rajpura-based Nabha Power Limited (NPL) for an enterprise value of Rs 6,889 crore. The acquisition is structured as a complete buyout of equity and convertible instruments held by L&T Power Development Limited. Commissioned in 2014, the 1400 MW (two supercritical plants of 700 MW each) thermal power plant is believed to be one of the most efficient power plants in Punjab. Punjab: Torrent Power to acquire Nabha Power plant from L&T, sold for Rs 6,889 crore Commissioned in 2014, the Rajpura-based NPL comprises two supercritical units of 700 MW each article_Author Ruchika Khanna Aman Sood Patiala, Updated At : 07:59 PM Feb 16, 2026 IST fb twitter whatsapp Follow us 0 Follow us Connect with us 1 Connect with us featured-imgfeatured-img Nabha Power Plant, Rajpura. File Photo Advertisement Torrent Power has entered into an agreement with Larsen & Toubro to acquire a 100 percent stake from the latter in Rajpura-based Nabha Power Limited (NPL) for an enterprise value of Rs 6,889 crore. Advertisement The acquisition is structured as a complete buyout of equity and convertible instruments held by L&T Power Development Limited. Advertisement Commissioned in 2014, the 1400 MW (two supercritical plants of 700 MW each) thermal power plant is believed to be one of the most efficient power plants in Punjab. Advertisement Built with Japanese technology, it has consistently outperformed industry benchmarks. Last year, NPL achieved its highest-ever plant availability factor of 95 percent. The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), a research and advocacy organisation, too, had named NPL’s Rajpura facility as India’s best-performing supercritical coal-based thermal power plant in terms of emission intensity (in plants having less than 800 MW capacity). Official sources in the power department told The Tribune that the L&T Power Development Limited had first asked the state government to buy the plant during the tenure of the previous Congress government. In August 2022, L&T had even written a letter to the Chairman of Powercom offering them the plant for Rs 9,690 crore. This letter, written by the Director cum Vice President of the company had said that the company had invested Rs 10,000 crore in setting up the plant. However, the deal with the government ultimately did not get through. A senior Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) functionary told The Tribune, “Since the power purchase agreement (PPA) is already signed, the change of ownership will not make any difference as for now. However, at a later stage, there might be some issues which can be sorted out mutually, as is the scenario in such cases.” L&T chairman and managing director S N Subrahmanyan said, “The divestment of NPL aligns with L&T’s strategic objective of unlocking value to strengthen our robust core businesses. This move positions us to create long-term value for all our stakeholders — business partners, shareholders, and employees.” Speaking on the development, Torrent Power Limited chairman Samir Mehta said, “The acquisition marks Torrent’s entry into the high-growth power market of northern India. Upon completion, NPL will add a high-quality, best-in-class, and well-established operating asset to our portfolio supported by fully contracted cash flows and a strong operational track record. The acquisition will be value accretive from day one, delivering a meaningful uplift in the overall revenues and profitability.” The plant operates under a 25-year PPA, providing guaranteed long-term cash flows. It has long-term Fuel Supply Agreements (FSAs), with the flexibility to blend domestic and imported coal. The plant also helps L&T to pivot away from non-core asset-heavy development projects to focus on its core business of engineering, procurement, and construction.

Director General Office

Delhi brought GRAP reactively after AQI crossed limit—13 out of 17 times this winter

According to Sunita Narain, Director of CSE, between these iterations and revisions, somewhere along the way, GRAP lost its original purpose. “When we took the idea of GRAP to the Supreme Court, it was supposed to be a temporary, emergency action plan,” she wrote on LinkedIn in December 2025. “But sadly, GRAP has become a proxy for action. This is not going to work. We need round-the-year action.” The Graded Response Action Plan for air pollution was imposed in Delhi a total of 17 times from January 2025 to January 2026, with Stage III restrictions lasting 53 days and Stage IV restrictions lasting 15 days. According to the Commission for Air Quality Management’s guidelines, GRAP measures should be planned as “advance action” and invoked based on AQI forecasts ahead of pollution-heavy days. However, ThePrint’s analysis of GRAP orders and a CEEW study from October 2025 showed that GRAP impositions largely relied on real-time AQI numbers, instead of on forecasts.

Water Programme

Long read: When water kills: The cracks in the urban supply story

Even as India strides confidently towards becoming the world’s third largest economy, it still hasn’t figured out how to get the basics of a decent life delivered to the vast majority of its population. The recent deaths in Indore – all 25 of them – from drinking sewage infected water are not an aberration. As Kushagra Bhardwaj points out in this piece, the overwhelming majority of India’s population does not have access to clean drinking water. Consequently, the incidence of water borne diseases – diseases which not just Europe & America but also most of Asia eradicated 50 years ago – have soared in India in recent decades. Even more worryingly, this issue is not confined to a few states of India; it is a pan-India issue cutting across geographies and across political divides. Mr Bhardwaj says: “According to a report by Down to Earth published by the Centre for Science and Environment, from January 2025 to January 7, 2026, at least 34 people died and 5,500 people fell ill across 26 cities, including 16 state capitals, spanning 22 states…after drinking sewage-contaminated piped drinking water.” To understand the speed at which India has gone backwards on this front, Mr Bhardwaj has studded his article with several excellent infographics which we would strongly encourage you to read & reference. In case you are too busy to do so, here are 3 points which hit us hard: Only 6% of urban Indian families get drinkable quality water from the tap whereas 62% use some form of modern filtration equipment at home. The number of Indians annually infected by Hepatitis A has risen 10x in the last 5 years. The jump in the incidence of Cholera in India over the same period is 5x. Relatively prosperous Indian states like Kerala, Tamilnadu and Karnataka feature prominently among states afflicted by disease infected water. So why is the Indian state failing so comprehensively to deliver such a basic human need? Mr Bhardwarj’s piece points to three issues (all 3 of which are hard to rectify). Firstly, the way the main water feeder pipes have been constructed in Indian cities puts them in close proximity to sewage pipes. Mr Bhardwaj writes: “Water pipelines running in close proximity to sewage-carrying pipelines significantly increase the risk of contamination. “The most critical point of pollution occurs when feeder mains pass through multiple areas, crisscrossing storm water drains and sewage lines,” Thippeswamy says. “When these lines crisscross, the joints are vulnerable.” Historically, when Indian cities were developed, artificial drains were designed to carry the stormwater from rooftops, streets and roads to natural drains or water bodies to prevent flooding of local areas. However, today, in most cities, these stormwater drains are filled with filth, which often comes into contact with drinking water supply lines, leading to contamination. However, multiple experts have highlighted that one of the greatest drawbacks of our water supply system remains intermittent supply. In most cities, water is often supplied twice or thrice a day, usually during specified timings. “When no water is being supplied, there is low pressure in the pipeline. It allows outer contaminants to enter the pipeline during this time. Surrounding groundwater, if mixed with the raw sewage, can enter the drinking water system through cracks and loose joints. This is called back siphonage or intrusion,” Subrata Chakraborty, Director, Water Program at the Delhi-based Centre for Science and Environment, told DH.” The second challenge arises from the sequence in which water pipes and sewage lines have been laid in India. Ideally, the water pipes should be ABOVE the sewage lines with a gap of 0.5m between the two pipes. However, in India the water pipes were laid many years BEFORE the sewage lines. This creates a major structural challenge when it comes to installing sewage lines. Mr Bhardwaj explains: “The challenge stems from the order in which the infrastructure is developed. “Almost all urban local bodies have some drinking water supply system,” Subrata explains. “But not all areas of these cities are covered under sewer line systems. So, drinking water lines are already there. Now, when you need to lay down sewer lines, engineers first need to identify the drinking water line and go below it.” Implementing this requires tools, training and documentation, resources that most cities lack.” Thirdly, Indian politicians prefer to prioritise capex over maintenance because the capex is tangible, do-able, can be shown to the voters and also creates scope for exercising patronage. As a result of this the unglamourous but essential work of maintaining water pipes is usually overlooked by the local and state governments. In fact, so poor is our maintenance of water-related infrastructure that in many cities the government actually does not know where the water pipes are: “Vishwanath Srikantaiah, popularly known as the Rain Man of Bengaluru, highlighted another problem about the ageing underground infrastructure. “The typical lifespan of pipes is around 30-40 years. However, there is no publicly available database storing information about these pipelines. It is usually only when some incidents happen that they are changed or repaired.” Asset replacement requires funds that cities often claim they lack. “Some amount is earmarked for asset replacement They start with the oldest pipelines, gradually replacing them,” Thippeswamy says. “But finances are always limited.””

Clean Air & Sustainable Mobility

Sweeping gap in dust control: Gurgaon has only 18 of 38 required mechanical sweepers operational

Gurgaon: The city continues to struggle with road dust due to a glaring shortage of mechanical road sweepers. Though the city has 287 km of roads wider than 60 feet, requiring 38 large mechanical road sweeping machines (MRSMs), only 18 are operational, leaving a deficit of 20, data shows. This gap remains despite repeated directives from the CAQM, which mandated strict technical and operational standards for mechanised sweeping across the NCR. Bridging this shortfall is estimated to cost Rs 26 crore, but procurement is still awaiting administrative approval. MRSMs are specialised vehicles that sweep and vacuum fine dust while spraying water to suppress particles. Dust collected is stored in hoppers and filtered to prevent re-release into the air. CAQM mandated that new fleets must run on CNG or electric power. The issue is particularly acute in Gurgaon, where road dust is a major contributor to particulate pollution, worsened by traffic, construction activity, and unpaved shoulders. During dry months, CAQM warned that road dust spikes PM10 levels and contributes to PM2.5 through re-suspension. Auxiliary dust-control measures also fall short. Gurgaon requires 40 water sprinklers during Grap periods but has only 30. Similarly, just 13 mobile anti-smog guns are available against a requirement of 24, with funding for additional units pending. The problem extends beyond wide roads. Gurgaon also has 99.64 km of medium-width roads and 311.16 km of narrow roads, but no medium or small MRSMs were deployed or even proposed. This leaves over 410 km of the city's road network outside the mechanised sweeping framework, in violation of CAQM norms that require separate machines for different road widths. In its latest direction dated Feb 10, CAQM laid down uniform technical and operational norms for mechanised sweeping across NCR, flagging road dust as a dominant contributor to PM10 and a significant source of PM2.5, especially during dry months. The commission directed that MRSMs must be deployed strictly according to road width, with separate specifications for large, medium and small roads. Machines must be equipped with integrated water spraying and particulate matter filtration systems to prevent re-suspension of dust. It also mandated that MRSMs operate for at least eight hours per shift, follow declared sweeping schedules, run on CNG or electric fuel in new fleets, and ensure scientific disposal of collected dust to prevent its re-entry into ambient air. Experts cautioned that mechanised sweeping, while useful, cannot be seen as a silver bullet. Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director, research and advocacy, Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), said focusing only on mechanical road sweepers will not solve Gurgaon's dust problem. Roychowdhury said cities need a road redevelopment approach, where entire road networks are rebuilt with properly paved carriageways, footpaths and shoulders, avenue greening and well-designed drains, all of which directly reduce dust generation. "Otherwise, sweeping and water sprinkling become a never-ending exercise. You collect dust, dump it somewhere, and it re-enters the air. Even the fuel used to run these machines adds to pollution. Without fixing the roads themselves, sweepers alone cannot control dust," she added. TOI earlier reported on how loose dust remains widespread across Gurgaon, from dug-up roads to exposed construction materials and garbage trucks. Busy areas such as MG Road, Udyog Vihar, Sector 29, Sushant Lok 1, Galleria Market Road, IFFCO Chowk, Atlas Chowk, and Gurgaon-Faridabad Road are particularly affected. According to the pollution board, the size of dust particles determines their health hazard.

Director General Office

India Water Foundation Felicitated for Integrated Transversality Leadership

Sustainable Habitat

Debris and road dust drive PM10 pollution level in Delhi-NCR, experts tell MCG

Gurgaon: During a one-day training session on construction and demolition (C&D) waste management, experts told MCG officials that dust from roads, soil and construction activities accounted for 42% of PM10 pollution in the Delhi-NCR, making C&D waste a major, but often overlooked, source of air pollution. Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), briefed civic officials on dust control strategies and recycling models drawn from cities participating in the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). If not disposed of properly, C&D waste causes blockage of water bodies, urban flooding, land instability and eats into green areas, experts said. About 80% to 90% of C&D waste can be recycled and reused, and if measures such as road management, material handling and wind barriers are used at construction sites, PM10 emissions can be reduced by 64% to 79%, they said.

Sustainable Food Systems

International peer-reviewed study validates our honey quality, says Patanjali

HARIDWAR: Patanjali Ayurved has said its honey meets the highest standards of quality and purity after a peer-reviewed research study was published in Applied Food Research, an international journal by Elsevier. The company said on Thursday that the study provides "scientific validation of Patanjali’s long-stated claims on product purity and consumer safety." Managing director Acharya Balkrishna said Patanjali "practises what it preaches and remains committed to protecting consumers from adulterated food products". He added that "Indian food products have often faced scepticism at global forums, but publication of the research in an international journal demonstrates India’s capability to achieve and maintain world-class research and quality standards." Balkrishna said the findings were "a matter of pride not only for Patanjali but also for the Indian FMCG sector as a whole." The study said that Patanjali honey contains no external sugars, synthetic syrups or harmful chemical residues. It also found that the product complies with all regulatory requirements and reflects robust industrial-grade quality systems. Anurag Varshney, chief scientist at Patanjali, said 25 batches of Patanjali honey were analysed using advanced techniques such as HPLC, HPTLC and UHPLC. "The results showed that all batches were fully compliant with food safety and quality norms prescribed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/fssai) (FSSAI). The study also observed a high level of consistency in quality across batches, " he added. Patanjali honey had faced controversy following a 2020 report by Centre for Science & Environment which alleged that along with other major brands,it had failed International Nuclear Magnetic Resonance test for adulteration with sugar syrup. Patanjali had at the time refuted the findings.

Down To Earth

Parties Urged To Include Key Environmental Issues in Manifestos

Continuing a practice it has followed during previous parliamentary and assembly elections, the organisation announced that it will release its “Environmental Election Manifesto” after consultations with like-minded groups, scientists, social movements, and environmental activists. The initiative is based on the principle that electoral promises should include time-bound and actionable plans to tackle the growing climate crisis and ecological degradation. During the 2021 assembly elections, several political parties incorporated key recommendations from the environmental manifesto into their documents. Following its electoral victory, the DMK government issued government orders and implemented certain projects aligned with the demands raised by environmental groups, according to 'Poovulagin Nanbargal'. The renewed call for climate-focused electoral commitments comes against the backdrop of increasing extreme weather events in Tamil Nadu. The report 'Climate India 2024: An Assessment of Extreme Weather Events', released by the Centre for Science and Environment, notes a rise in cyclones, floods, droughts, heatwaves, and lightning incidents linked to global warming.

Sustainable Habitat

स्वच्छ वायु और सतत शहरीकरण की दिशा में उठाएं ठोस कदम

सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड इनवायरमेंट की तरफ से एक दिवसीय प्रशिक्षण हुआ आयोजित तेजी से बढ़ते शहरीकरण के बीच निर्माण एवं ध्वस्तीकरण (सीएंडडी) वेस्ट और धूल प्रदूषण एक बड़ी चुनौती बन गए हैं। हाल ही में सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरमेंट की ओर से नगर निगम गुरुग्राम में आयोजित एक कार्यशाला में यह स्पष्ट किया गया कि राष्ट्रीय स्वच्छ वायु कार्यक्रम के लक्ष्यों को प्राप्त करने के लिए निर्माण कचरे का वैज्ञानिक प्रबंधन अनिवार्य है। दिल्ली-एनसीआर में पीएम10 प्रदूषण का 42 प्रतिशत हिस्सा सड़क, मिट्टी और निर्माण गतिविधियों से आता है। निर्माण क्षेत्र वैश्विक संसाधनों का 40-50 प्रतिशत उपभोग करता है, जबकि इसके कचरे का 80-90 प्रतिशत हिस्सा पुनर्चक्रण योग्य होता है। विंड बैरियर और सामग्री के सही रखरखाव जैसे उपायों से धूल उत्सर्जन में 64 से 79 प्रतिशत तक की कमी लाई जा सकती है।अनुचित निस्तारण से न केवल वायु प्रदूषण बढ़ता है, बल्कि यह शहरी बाढ़ और जलाशयों के अवरुद्ध होने का कारण भी बनता है। अतिरिक्त निगमायुक्त यश जालुका ने प्रतिबद्धता जताई है कि गुरुग्राम निगम इन सुझावों को चरणबद्ध तरीके से लागू करेगा।

Director General Office

India Water Foundation Felicitated for Integrated Transversality Leadership

The event was graced by eminent dignitaries, including Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, Former Minister of Education, Government of India, and Former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand; K. C. Tyagi, Former Member of Lok Sabha; and Sunita Narain, Director General of the Centre for Science and Environment. Addressing the gathering, Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank appreciated the India Water Foundation for its sustained efforts in integrating water security with environmental stewardship. He noted that India’s developmental journey must be anchored in ecological wisdom and stated that institutions like IWF are playing a pivotal role in bridging policy, science, and grassroots action. He emphasized that water conservation and afforestation must go hand in hand to ensure long-term climate resilience. Shri K. C. Tyagi highlighted the importance of collaborative platforms that unite policymakers, civil society, and practitioners. He remarked that the work of the India Water Foundation demonstrates how integrated approaches can simultaneously address environmental degradation, rural livelihoods, and social inclusion. He underscored that nurturing plant life through nurseries and protecting water resources are complementary pillars of sustainable development. Ms. Sunita Narain commended the Nurserymen Association of India for strengthening the environmental movement through practical interventions. The India Water Foundation (IWF) was honoured with a prestigious award by the Nurserymen Association of India in recognition of its outstanding contributions across diverse domains, including water conservation, environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and community empowerment. The award was presented during “Prakriti Diwas” organised bythe Nurserymen Association of India on 12 February 2026 at the India International Centre. The recognition reflects the shared vision between the two institutions in promoting ecological restoration, strengthening green livelihoods, and advancing sustainable natural resource management. The award acknowledges India Water Foundation’s integrated approach aligned with national priorities and global sustainability goals. The event was graced by eminent dignitaries, including Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, Former Minister of Education, Government of India, and Former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand; K. C. Tyagi, Former Member of Lok Sabha; and Sunita Narain, Director General of the Centre for Science and Environment. Addressing the gathering, Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank appreciated the India Water Foundation for its sustained efforts in integrating water security with environmental stewardship. He noted that India’s developmental journey must be anchored in ecological wisdom and stated that institutions like IWF are playing a pivotal role in bridging policy, science, and grassroots action. He emphasized that water conservation and afforestation must go hand in hand to ensure long-term climate resilience. Shri K. C. Tyagi highlighted the importance of collaborative platforms that unite policymakers, civil society, and practitioners. He remarked that the work of the India Water Foundation demonstrates how integrated approaches can simultaneously address environmental degradation, rural livelihoods, and social inclusion. He underscored that nurturing plant life through nurseries and protecting water resources are complementary pillars of sustainable development. Ms. Sunita Narain commended the Nurserymen Association of India for strengthening the environmental movement through practical interventions. On the occasion, the India Water Foundation expressed its heartfelt gratitude to the Nurserymen Association of India and all the esteemed dignitaries for the honour and warm recognition bestowed upon it. The Foundation deeply appreciated the Association’s exemplary contribution in promoting horticulture, biodiversity conservation, environmental stewardship, and green livelihoods across the country. This recognition further strengthens the shared resolve of both institutions to work collaboratively for water security, ecological restoration, and climate resilience. The India Water Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to advancing integrated solutions that connect water, environment, and green growth, ensuring sustainable and inclusive development for present and future generations. The India Water Foundation (IWF) works as a policy think-tank and action-oriented organization dedicated to integrated water, environment, and climate solutions. Its core work includes water conservation, watershed and springshed rejuvenation, river basin management, and ecosystem-based adaptation to strengthen climate resilience. IWF actively promotes the Water–Energy–Health–Environment nexus through its concept of Water Transversality, linking water security with energy, health, education and livelihoods. . The Foundation undertakes research, policy advocacy, capacity building, and community outreach globally. It supports livelihood generation through environmentally aligned practices, promotes ESG-aligned governance frameworks, and engages with ministries, UN agencies, and global platforms to advance SDG implementation. Through conferences, publications, field interventions, and multi-stakeholder partnerships, IWF works to build a water-secure, climate-resilient, and socially inclusive future. Considering the same India Water Foundation is organizing The Water Transversality global Awards and Conclave 2026, with the theme of ESG Transversality for Water–Energy-Environment-Health Nexus” on 6-7th March at India International Centre, Delhi. It is a flagship global platform conceptualized and organized by the India Water Foundation to advance integrated solutions for water security through cross-sectoral collaboration. The Conclave brings together policymakers, UN agencies, industry leaders, financial institutions, academia, civil society, and grassroots practitioners to deliberate on the Water–Energy–Health–Environment nexus under an ESG-aligned framework. It promotes the philosophy of Water Transversality, positioning water as the connecting force across climate resilience, green industry, poverty alleviation, public health, and sustainable development. The Water Transversality Awards and Conclave represents a movement transforming water governance from fragmented management to interconnected, inclusive, and climate-resilient development planning.

Director General Office

India Water Foundation Felicitated for Integrated Transversality Leadership

The India Water Foundation (IWF) was honoured with a prestigious award by the Nurserymen Association of India in recognition of its outstanding contributions across diverse domains including water conservation, environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and community empowerment. The award was presented during “Prakriti Diwas” organised by Nurserymen Association of India on 12 February 2026 at the India International Centre. The recognition reflects the shared vision between the two institutions in promoting ecological restoration, strengthening green livelihoods, and advancing sustainable natural resource management. The award acknowledges India Water Foundation’s integrated aligned with national priorities and global sustainability goals. The event was graced by eminent dignitaries including Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, Former Minister of Education, Government of India and Former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand; K. C. Tyagi, Former Member of Lok Sabha; and Sunita Narain, Director General of the Centre for Science and Environment. Addressing the gathering, Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank appreciated the India Water Foundation for its sustained efforts in integrating water security with environmental stewardship. He noted that India’s developmental journey must be anchored in ecological wisdom and stated that institutions like IWF are playing a pivotal role in bridging policy, science, and grassroots action. He emphasized that water conservation and afforestation must go hand in hand to ensure long-term climate resilience. Shri K. C. Tyagi highlighted the importance of collaborative platforms that unite policymakers, civil society, and practitioners. He remarked that the work of the India Water Foundation demonstrates how integrated approaches can simultaneously address environmental degradation, rural livelihoods, and social inclusion. He underscored that nurturing plant life through nurseries and protecting water resources are complementary pillars of sustainable development. Ms. Sunita Narain commended the Nurserymen Association of India for strengthening the environmental movement through practical interventions. On the occasion, the India Water Foundation expressed its heartfelt gratitude to the Nurserymen Association of India and all the esteemed dignitaries for the honour and warm recognition bestowed upon it. The Foundation deeply appreciated the Association’s exemplary contribution in promoting horticulture, biodiversity conservation, environmental stewardship, and green livelihoods across the country. This recognition further strengthens the shared resolve of both institutions to work collaboratively for water security, ecological restoration, and climate resilience. The India Water Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to advancing integrated solutions that connect water, environment, and green growth, ensuring sustainable and inclusive development for present and future generations. The India Water Foundation (IWF) works as a policy think-tank and action-oriented organization dedicated to integrated water, environment, and climate solutions. Its core work includes water conservation, watershed and springshed rejuvenation, river basin management, and ecosystem-based adaptation to strengthen climate resilience. IWF actively promotes the Water–Energy–Health–Environment nexus through its concept of Water Transversality, linking water security with energy, health, education and livelihoods. . The Foundation undertakes research, policy advocacy, capacity building, and community outreach globally. It supports livelihood generation through environmentally aligned practices, promotes ESG-aligned governance frameworks, and engages with ministries, UN agencies, and global platforms to advance SDG implementation. Through conferences, publications, field interventions, and multi-stakeholder partnerships, IWF works to build a water-secure, climate-resilient, and socially inclusive future. Considering the same India Water Foundation is organizing The Water Transversality global Awards and Conclave 2026, with the theme of ESG Transversality for Water–Energy-Environment-Health Nexus” on 6-7th March at India International Centre, Delhi. It is a flagship global platform conceptualized and organized by the India Water Foundation to advance integrated solutions for water security through cross-sectoral collaboration. The Conclave brings together policymakers, UN agencies, industry leaders, financial institutions, academia, civil society, and grassroots practitioners to deliberate on the Water–Energy–Health–Environment nexus under an ESG-aligned framework. It promotes the philosophy of Water Transversality, positioning water as the connecting force across climate resilience, green industry, poverty alleviation, public health, and sustainable development. The Water Transversality Awards and Conclave represents a movement transforming water governance from fragmented management to interconnected, inclusive, and climate-resilient development planning.

Director General Office

India Water Foundation Felicitated for Integrated Transversality Leadership

he India Water Foundation (IWF) was honoured with a prestigious award by the Nurserymen Association of India in recognition of its outstanding contributions across diverse domains including water conservation, environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and community empowerment. The award was presented during “Prakriti Diwas” organised by Nurserymen Association of India on 12 February 2026 at the India International Centre. The recognition reflects the shared vision between the two institutions in promoting ecological restoration, strengthening green livelihoods, and advancing sustainable natural resource management. The award acknowledges India Water Foundation's integrated aligned with national priorities and global sustainability goals. The event was graced by eminent dignitaries including Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, Former Minister of Education, Government of India and Former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand; K. C. Tyagi, Former Member of Lok Sabha; and Sunita Narain, Director General of the Centre for Science and Environment. Addressing the gathering, Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank appreciated the India Water Foundation for its sustained efforts in integrating water security with environmental stewardship. He noted that India's developmental journey must be anchored in ecological wisdom and stated that institutions like IWF are playing a pivotal role in bridging policy, science, and grassroots action. He emphasized that water conservation and afforestation must go hand in hand to ensure long-term climate resilience. Shri K. C. Tyagi highlighted the importance of collaborative platforms that unite policymakers, civil society, and practitioners. He remarked that the work of the India Water Foundation demonstrates how integrated approaches can simultaneously address environmental degradation, rural livelihoods, and social inclusion. He underscored that nurturing plant life through nurseries and protecting water resources are complementary pillars of sustainable development. Ms. Sunita Narain commended the Nurserymen Association of India for strengthening the environmental movement through practical interventions.

Director General Office

India Water Foundation Felicitated for Integrated Transversality Leadership

The India Water Foundation (IWF) was honoured with a prestigious award by the Nurserymen Association of India in recognition of its outstanding contributions across diverse domains, including water conservation, environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and community empowerment. The award was presented during “Prakriti Diwas” organised by the Nurserymen Association of India on 12 February 2026 at the India International Centre. The recognition reflects the shared vision between the two institutions in promoting ecological restoration, strengthening green livelihoods, and advancing sustainable natural resource management. The award acknowledges India Water Foundation’s integrated approach aligned with national priorities and global sustainability goals. The event was graced by eminent dignitaries, including Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, Former Minister of Education, Government of India and Former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand; K. C. Tyagi, Former Member of Lok Sabha; and Sunita Narain, Director General of the Centre for Science and Environment. Addressing the gathering, Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank appreciated the India Water Foundation for its sustained efforts in integrating water security with environmental stewardship. He noted that India’s developmental journey must be anchored in ecological wisdom and stated that institutions like IWF are playing a pivotal role in bridging policy, science, and grassroots action. He emphasized that water conservation and afforestation must go hand in hand to ensure long-term climate resilience. Shri K. C. Tyagi highlighted the importance of collaborative platforms that unite policymakers, civil society, and practitioners. He remarked that the work of the India Water Foundation demonstrates how integrated approaches can simultaneously address environmental degradation, rural livelihoods, and social inclusion. He underscored that nurturing plant life through nurseries and protecting water resources are complementary pillars of sustainable development. Ms. Sunita Narain commended the Nurserymen Association of India for strengthening the environmental movement through practical interventions. On the occasion, the India Water Foundation expressed its heartfelt gratitude to the Nurserymen Association of India and all the esteemed dignitaries for the honour and warm recognition bestowed upon it. The Foundation deeply appreciated the Association’s exemplary contribution in promoting horticulture, biodiversity conservation, environmental stewardship, and green livelihoods across the country. This recognition further strengthens the shared resolve of both institutions to work collaboratively for water security, ecological restoration, and climate resilience. The India Water Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to advancing integrated solutions that connect water, environment, and green growth, ensuring sustainable and inclusive development for present and future generations. The India Water Foundation (IWF) works as a policy think-tank and action-oriented organization dedicated to integrated water, environment, and climate solutions. Its core work includes water conservation, watershed and springshed rejuvenation, river basin management, and ecosystem-based adaptation to strengthen climate resilience. IWF actively promotes the Water–Energy–Health–Environment nexus through its concept of Water Transversality, linking water security with energy, health, education and livelihoods. . The Foundation undertakes research, policy advocacy, capacity building, and community outreach globally. It supports livelihood generation through environmentally aligned practices, promotes ESG-aligned governance frameworks, and engages with ministries, UN agencies, and global platforms to advance SDG implementation. Through conferences, publications, field interventions, and multi-stakeholder partnerships, IWF works to build a water-secure, climate-resilient, and socially inclusive future. Considering the same India Water Foundation is organizing The Water Transversality global Awards and Conclave 2026, with the theme of ESG Transversality for Water–Energy-Environment-Health Nexus” on 6-7th March at India International Centre, Delhi. It is a flagship global platform conceptualized and organized by the India Water Foundation to advance integrated solutions for water security through cross-sectoral collaboration. The Conclave brings together policymakers, UN agencies, industry leaders, financial institutions, academia, civil society, and grassroots practitioners to deliberate on the Water–Energy–Health–Environment nexus under an ESG-aligned framework. It promotes the philosophy of Water Transversality, positioning water as the connecting force across climate resilience, green industry, poverty alleviation, public health, and sustainable development. The Water Transversality Awards and Conclave represents a movement transforming water governance from fragmented management to interconnected, inclusive, and climate-resilient development planning.

Clean Air & Sustainable Mobility

प्रदूषण पर कड़ा वार: दिल्ली में लगेंगे 14 नए एयर मॉनिटरिंग स्टेशन, हर 25 वर्ग किमी पर होगी निगरानी

यह विस्तार सितंबर में आई सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरनमेंट (CSE) की रिपोर्ट के बाद किया जा रहा है। रिपोर्ट में बताया गया था कि दिल्ली के लगभग 25% क्षेत्र, खासकर बाहरी इलाकों में, 5 किमी के दायरे में कोई मॉनिटरिंग स्टेशन नहीं है। छह नए एंबिएंट एयर क्वालिटी मॉनिटरिंग स्टेशन शुरू करने के एक दिन बाद, दिल्ली सरकार ने मंगलवार को घोषणा की कि वह अगले वित्त वर्ष में 14 और स्टेशन लगाएगी। इसका उद्देश्य है कि पूरे शहर में हर 25 वर्ग किलोमीटर पर एक मॉनिटरिंग स्टेशन हो। पर्यावरण मंत्री मनजिंदर सिंह सिरसा ने कहा कि इसके लिए 5 किमी × 5 किमी का ग्रिड सिस्टम लागू किया जाएगा, ताकि प्रदूषण की निगरानी में जो भौगोलिक कमी है, उसे दूर किया जा सके। NCR में बढ़ेगा एयर मॉनिटरिंग नेटवर्क यह कदम एनसीआर और आसपास के क्षेत्रों में वायु गुणवत्ता प्रबंधन आयोग (CAQM) के निर्देश के अनुरूप है। आयोग ने पूरे राष्ट्रीय राजधानी क्षेत्र (NCR) में इसी ग्रिड प्रणाली के तहत ज्यादा मॉनिटरिंग स्टेशन लगाने की बात कही है। CAQM के अनुसार, एनसीआर के शहरों में 21 नए स्टेशन लगाए जा रहे हैं, जिनमें से 14 दिल्ली में होंगे, और इसके बाद 46 और स्टेशनों की जरूरत होगी। सिरसा ने कहा, “हम 5×5 किमी के ग्रिड पर काम कर रहे हैं। 2026-27 तक दिल्ली के पूरे भौगोलिक क्षेत्र को कवर कर लिया जाएगा।” नए स्टेशनों के लिए स्थानों का आकलन जारी है। Air Pollution Monitoring: दिल्ली में छह नए स्टेशन शुरू दिल्ली में पहले से ही देश का सबसे सघन मॉनिटरिंग नेटवर्क है। सोमवार को मुख्यमंत्री रेखा गुप्ता ने जेएनयू, इग्नू, एसपीएमएसपीसी टॉकटोरा गार्डन, कॉमनवेल्थ स्पोर्ट्स कॉम्प्लेक्स, दिल्ली कैंट और एनएसयूटी (वेस्ट कैंपस) में छह नए स्टेशन शुरू किए। हर 25 वर्ग किमी पर होगा एयर क्वालिटी मॉनिटर इन नए स्टेशनों के बाद 1,483 वर्ग किलोमीटर में फैली दिल्ली में कुल 46 स्टेशन हो गए हैं, यानी हर 32 वर्ग किलोमीटर पर एक स्टेशन। प्रस्तावित 14 और स्टेशन जुड़ने के बाद कुल संख्या 60 हो जाएगी, जिससे हर 25 वर्ग किलोमीटर पर एक स्टेशन का लक्ष्य पूरा हो जाएगा। यह विस्तार सितंबर में आई सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरनमेंट (CSE) की रिपोर्ट के बाद किया जा रहा है। रिपोर्ट में बताया गया था कि दिल्ली के लगभग 25% क्षेत्र, खासकर बाहरी इलाकों में, 5 किमी के दायरे में कोई मॉनिटरिंग स्टेशन नहीं है। NCR Air Quality Stations: दिल्ली-एनसीआर में कुल 157 स्टेशन CAQM की क्षेत्रीय योजना के अनुसार, दिल्ली और उससे सटे एनसीआर शहरों जैसे गाजियाबाद, नोएडा और फरीदाबाद में हर 25 वर्ग किलोमीटर पर एक स्टेशन होना जरूरी है। जबकि अन्य जिला मुख्यालयों में हर 50 वर्ग किलोमीटर पर एक स्टेशन लगाया जाएगा। आयोग ने कहा कि शहरी सीमा से लगे और उपनगरीय क्षेत्रों में निगरानी जरूरी है, ताकि प्रदूषण के आने-जाने और शहरी विस्तार के असर को समझा जा सके। सभी प्रस्तावित स्टेशन लगने के बाद दिल्ली-एनसीआर में कुल 157 स्टेशन हो जाएंगे। दिल्ली में 60, हरियाणा (एनसीआर) में 45, राजस्थान (एनसीआर) में 9 और उत्तर प्रदेश (एनसीआर) में 43। Delhi News: ज्यादा स्टेशन होने से बेहतर कवरे विशेषज्ञों का कहना है कि ज्यादा स्टेशन होने से बेहतर कवरेज मिलेगी और नीतिगत फैसले लेने में मदद मिलेगी। CSE की कार्यकारी निदेशक अणुमिता रॉय चौधरी ने कहा कि डेटा की गुणवत्ता और नियमित मॉनिटरिंग सुनिश्चित करना जरूरी है, क्योंकि पहले भी एनसीआर के कई स्टेशनों से डेटा गायब होने की समस्या देखी गई है। वहीं, एनवायरोकैटलिस्ट्स के संस्थापक सुनील दहिया ने कहा कि नए स्टेशन ऐसी जगहों पर लगाए जाने चाहिए जो पूरे शहर का सही प्रतिनिधित्व करें। उन्होंने कहा कि हाल में लगाए गए छह स्टेशन ज्यादातर हरित क्षेत्रों में हैं, इसलिए ध्यान रखा जाए कि सभी नए स्टेशन केवल हरित इलाकों में न लगाए जाएं, वरना औसत आंकड़े प्रभावित हो सकते हैं।

Clean Air & Sustainable Mobility

Delhi to get 14 more air quality monitoring stations, exceed 25 sq km coverage target

A day after inaugurating six new ambient air quality monitoring stations, the Delhi government announced plans on Tuesday to install 14 additional stations in the upcoming financial year, aiming to blanket the city with a monitoring point every 25 square kilometers. The goal is to implement a systematic 5km-by-5km grid network, giving the city one station every 25 sq km and thus eliminating existing geographical gaps in pollution tracking, said Delhi’s environment minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa. This push aligns with a broader directive from the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM), which on Tuesday called for a denser monitoring network across the entire National Capital Region using the same grid concept. CAQM stated that 21 new stations are being installed in NCR towns – including the 14 planned for Delhi – with an additional 46 required thereafter. “We are looking at a 5x5 km grid, so soon there will be a station every 25 sq km, completing the entire network for Delhi in terms of geographical area by the end of 2026-27,” said Sirsa. An assessment for the new locations is underway, he added. Delhi already has the densest network of stations in the country. On Monday, Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta inaugurated the six new stations at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), SPMSPC Talkatora Garden, Commonwealth Sports Complex, Delhi Cantonment and NSUT (West Campus). Monday’s new stations take the network to 46 in total for the 1,483 sq km city – giving the Capital an air quality monitor for every 32 sq km. The planned 14 stations would increase the total to 60, comfortably exceeding the 25 sq km coverage target. The expansion addresses gaps highlighted in a September report by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), which found that 25% of Delhi’s area, largely in peripheral districts, lay outside a 5-km radius of any monitoring station. CAQM’s regional plan mandates one station per 25 sq km for Delhi and contiguous NCR cities like Ghaziabad, Noida, and Faridabad. Other district headquarters in the NCR will require one station per 50 sq km. “The remaining district headquarters and cities would have one station per 50 sq km area. Monitoring coverage in peri-urban and suburban areas has also been identified as critical for assessing inflow and outflow of pollution and understanding the impact of urban sprawl on regional air quality,” CAQM said in a statement on Tuesday.

Clean Air & Sustainable Mobility

14 new monitoring stations to boost pollution fight likely

A report by Centre for Science and Environment last year found the existing monitoring network covers only 26 per cent of Delhi's area within a 2 km radius, leaving a 74 per cent data shadow; and 75 per cent within a 5 km radius, leaving a 25 per cent shadow. This results in peripheral districts being under-served. After inaugurating six Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring System (CAAQMS) stations in the city on Monday - taking the total to 46 - Delhi govt plans to install 14 more in the next financial year. The aim is to ensure at least one every 25 square km, officials said, adding, they are assessing areas to install the 14 stations. Moreover, 10 new stations in UP, seven in Haryana and four in Rajasthan are in the process of being set up, Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) said. TOI had reported last Nov that the spread of the stations is uneven in Delhi-NCR. Though the capital has the highest number of such stations among all Indian cities, their distribution is uneven, with very few in the southwest and northwest peripheries. The situation is no different in NCR cities, with 21 having just a station each. A report by Centre for Science and Environment last year found the existing monitoring network covers only 26 per cent of Delhi's area within a 2 km radius, leaving a 74 per cent data shadow; and 75 per cent within a 5 km radius, leaving a 25 per cent shadow. This results in peripheral districts being under-served.