GS3
Science & Technology
10 marks
How does the development of a customised Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) scale by Indian researchers reflect the growing role of science and technology in environmental management?
The development of a customised Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) scale by researchers at BITS Pilani Hyderabad reflects India's growing use of science and technology to tackle emerging environmental health challenges. While outdoor air pollution has received significant attention, indoor air—often two to five times more polluted—remains largely neglected. The new IAQ scale provides a scientific, data-driven tool to assess and manage indoor air pollutants in Indian homes.
The IAQ scale quantifies major pollutants such as PM2.5, PM10, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like benzene, which pose serious health risks. It assigns weighted importance to factors like pollution concentration, exposure time, ventilation efficiency, and enclosure size—capturing both the intensity and duration of exposure.
This innovation integrates environmental science with data analytics and machine learning, creating a context-specific metric for Indian households. It translates complex data into an easily understandable index, empowering individuals and policymakers to take preventive action.
The scale's development also highlights the role of indigenous research in environmental governance. It enables evidence-based interventions such as improving ventilation, reducing incense burning, promoting cleaner fuels, and designing healthier indoor spaces. Furthermore, it can guide public health campaigns and building regulations focused on “healthy housing.”
The IAQ scale signifies how science and technology are evolving from mere observation tools to instruments of active environmental management. By bridging research, public awareness, and policy implementation, it reinforces the idea that sustainable development and human health can be achieved through indigenous, technology-driven solutions tailored to local needs.
GS2
Indian Polity
4 Sept, 2026
The recent Bihar–Jharkhand agreement on sharing the Sone River waters demonstrates the potential of negotiated mechanisms in resolving inter-State water disputes. Examine the challenges associated with inter-State river water governance in India and suggest measures for their cooperative resolution.
GS2
International Relations
Yesterday
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation provides India both a platform for deeper Eurasian engagement and a forum marked by significant strategic contradictions. In light of the recent SCO Summit, examine the significance of the organisation for India and the challenges that constrain its effectiveness.
GS3
Economy
2 Sept, 2026
India’s latest GDP numbers indicate resilient growth alongside signs of an emerging investment cycle. Examine the drivers of India’s recent economic growth and assess whether it can translate into a sustained private investment boom.
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