The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has announced the winners of the 5th Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan Awards, recognising cities and wards that have performed best in managing air quality. The announcement was made on Swachh Vayu Diwas 2026, observed on the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies. The awards form part of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), which tracks air quality efforts across 130 cities in India.
The Awards and Programme Details
Cities were ranked in three groups based on population size: those below 3 lakh, between 3 lakh and 10 lakh, and above 10 lakh. Ten cities emerged as best performers after a process involving self-assessment, state-level committee approval, evaluation by the Central Pollution Control Board, independent field verification and final selection.
Under NCAP, a performance-linked grant of Rs 16,425 crore has been distributed to 130 cities across 24 States and Union Territories for implementing air pollution control measures. The programme assesses cities on their work in road dust management, solid waste, vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, construction and demolition waste, emissions from generators and commercial establishments, and public awareness activities.
Results from 2025-26 show measurable progress. Among the 130 NCAP cities, 108 have reduced PM10 (particulate matter) levels compared to 2017-18 baseline. Seventy-two cities achieved reductions exceeding 20 per cent, while 26 cities reduced levels by more than 40 per cent. Fourteen cities have already met the National Ambient Air Quality Standards.
During the event, the Ministry also released a Compendium of Best Management Practices under NCAP. This document collects successful strategies used by cities and State Pollution Control Boards across road dust control, vehicular pollution, industrial emissions, waste management, open burning control, tree planting and public engagement.
What this means for you
If you live in one of the 130 NCAP cities, air quality improvements are underway through structured government action and funding. The compendium means other cities can now adopt tested solutions from successful performers, potentially speeding up air quality gains nationwide. Citizens in award-winning cities should expect continued focus on pollution control from local authorities, though individual participation in awareness campaigns will remain important for sustained progress.