On World Environment Day 2024, June 5th, S Krishnan, Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), inaugurated the Indigenous Air Quality Monitoring System (AQ-AIMS) and launched the mobile application “Air-Pravah” for real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) monitoring. The event was held in New Delhi, India.
Key Highlights:
- Inauguration of AQ-AIMS:
- Cost-Effective Solution: The AQ-AIMS is a cost-effective system designed to monitor AQI more efficiently. It is part of the “Make in India” initiative led by the Government of India.
- Developers: The system was developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) in Kolkata, in partnership with Technology Innovation in Exploration and Mining (TeXMIN), Indian School of Mines (ISM), Dhanbad, and J M Envirolab Private Limited. The development falls under the “National Programme on Electronics and ICT Applications in Agriculture and Environment (AgriEnIcs).”
- Launch of Air-Pravah App:
- The Air-Pravah mobile application provides real-time monitoring of the Air Quality Index (AQI), allowing users to stay informed about air quality in their area.
About AQ-AIMS:
- Functionality:
- The AQ-AIMS is an outdoor air quality monitoring system that tracks environmental pollutants including PM 1.0, PM 2.5, PM 10, Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), Ozone (O3), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Carbon Dioxide (CO2), temperature, and humidity.
- Development and Certification:
- Partnership: Developed by C-DAC Kolkata, TeXMIN at ISM Dhanbad, and J M Envirolab Private Limited.
- Certification: Successfully completed field trials and received certification from the National Physical Laboratory of India (NPL), Delhi, and TUV India Private Limited, Pune.
- Commercialization:
- The AQ-AIMS system is being commercialized by the Technology Transfer (TOT) partner, J M Envirolab Private Limited. It will be available on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal for wider accessibility.
Significance of the Launch:
- Environmental Impact: The launch of AQ-AIMS and Air-Pravah app marks a significant step towards improving air quality monitoring in India. By providing accurate and real-time data, these tools can help in making informed decisions to combat air pollution.
- Technological Advancement: These innovations showcase India’s capabilities in developing advanced technology solutions under the Make in India initiative, promoting self-reliance and innovation in the environmental sector.
Future Prospects:
- Widespread Adoption: With the commercialization and availability on the GeM portal, AQ-AIMS is expected to see widespread adoption across various sectors, enhancing air quality monitoring capabilities nationwide.
- Enhanced Public Awareness: The Air-Pravah app aims to raise public awareness about air quality issues, encouraging proactive measures to protect health and the environment.
About the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY):
- Mission: MeitY is dedicated to promoting e-governance for empowering citizens, promoting inclusive and sustainable growth of the electronics, IT, and ITeS industries, and enhancing India’s role in internet governance.
- Headquarters: New Delhi, India
The inauguration of AQ-AIMS and the launch of the Air-Pravah app on World Environment Day underline India’s commitment to leveraging technology for environmental sustainability and public health. These initiatives represent a significant advancement in the nation’s efforts to monitor and improve air quality, ensuring a healthier environment for future generations.
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