CHAIR-India Consortium Reveals Staggering Mortality Impact of Air Pollution in India

The Consortium for Climate, Health and Air Pollution Research in India (CHAIR-India), in a new study published in the Lancet Planetary Health, revealed that long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution concentrations higher than the 5 μg/m³ annual average recommended by the WHO is potentially associated with 1.5 million deaths a year in India. According to the findings, 1.4 billion people in India live in areas with PM2.5 concentrations above that recommended by the WHO guidelines.

CHAIR-India consortium comprises of leading Indian academic institutions such as the Centre for Health Analytics Research and Trends (CHART) at 51���, the Centre for Chronic Disease Control (CCDC) and global institutions like Karolinska Institutet (Stockholm, Sweden), Harvard University, Boston University, and the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (USA), Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (Israel), and the Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Region Health Service/ASL Roma 1 (Italy).

This is the first Indian study to use difference-in-difference method, a causal methodology to isolate the effect of long-term PM2.5 exposure (annual) and all-cause mortality. The study observed that the risk is high even at lower air pollution levels, indicating the need to reduce air pollution levels across the country. It included annual death data reported across all districts and PM2.5 exposure from a spatio-temporal model built for India.

Major findings:

1. Every 10 μg/m3 increase in annual PM2.5 exposure is associated with an 8.6% increased risk for mortality across India. 
2. Unlike previous studies, this study used PM2.5 exposure from a fine spatio-temporal model built for India and annual mortality counts reported across all districts of India. 
3. First Indian study to use difference-in-difference method, a causal methodology to isolate the effect of long-term PM2.5 exposure (annual) and all-cause mortality.
4. During the study period (2009 to 2019), 25% of all deaths (~1.5 million deaths a year) were attributed to annual PM2.5 exposure higher than the WHO guideline value of 5 μg/m3 across the country. 
5. About 0.3 million annual deaths are attributed to annual exposure to PM2.5 above the Indian National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).
6. The exposure-response function revealed a higher incremental risk for mortality at lower PM2.5 concentrations and levelling off at higher PM2.5 concentrations.

The evidence supporting the association between long-term exposure to outdoor air pollution and deaths in India is scarce and inconsistent with studies in other countries. The authors of this study thoroughly analysed the annual deaths from 2009 to 2019 at a district level in India and obtained annual PM2.5 concentrations by a machine learning-based model using satellite data as well as ground-monitoring observations of air pollution levels across 1056 locations.   

The results of the study highlight the extent of the mortality burden due to PM2.5 pollution in India, the world’s most highly populated country, and underpin the need for stricter air pollution guidelines to prevent excess mortality due to air pollution. Implementing stronger air pollution guidelines is crucial to reducing this excess mortality and protecting the health of millions of people across the country.

The Centre for Health Analytics Research and Trends (CHART) at 51��� is an important part of the CHAIR-India consortium and plays a crucial role in conducting the research. CHAIR-India is a global network of top academic institutions working together to study the health impacts of air pollution and climate change. Part of 51���’s Trivedi School of Biosciences, CHART is focused on the establishment of a strong repository of evidence-based research on a range of issues impacting population health. The team comprises public health experts, epidemiologists, biostatisticians, social scientists, environmental epidemiologists and exposure science experts, geospatial analysts, health economists, and health system specialists, amongst others.

Insights from Researchers: 

Researchers emphasise the necessity of a comprehensive and systematic approach to addressing air pollution. Suganthi Jaganathan, doctoral researcher, Centre for Health Analytics Research and Trends (CHART), 51���, CCDC and Karolinska Institutet said, “High levels of annual PM2.5 exposures are observed in India causing a huge mortality burden (not limited to cities that are highlighted during the extreme pollution episodes), signalling the need for systematic and not symptomatic approach.“

Commenting on the study, Poornima Prabhakaran, Director - CHART, 51��� and Deputy Director & Head - Environmental Health, Senior Research Scientist at the CCDC and principal investigator from India for the CHAIR-India consortium said, “This study used a new analytical approach to demonstrate the mortality associated with exposure to high annual levels of PM 2.5 beyond the recommended WHO levels. This signals yet again the need to mount stringent air quality management strategies across India.”

“Delhi may get the headlines, but this is a problem all over India, and nationwide efforts are needed. Coal-burning electric plants need scrubbers, crop burning needs to be limited, and most importantly, we need urgent measures to protect population health,” said Joel Schwartz, Professor, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and principal investigator from the US for the CHAIR-India consortium. 

Highlighting the importance of the study, Petter Ljungman, Associate Professor at the Karolinska Institutet and principal investigator from Sweden for the CHAIR-India consortium said, “This nation-wide analysis of air pollution mortality using data from India brings important evidence to policymakers of the striking health impact of ambient air pollution all over the country. The fact that a significant level of mortality was evident for PM2.5 levels far below the current Indian standards is alarming.

The range of PM2.5 pollution exposure was quite large across the years, with the lowest annual PM2.5 concentration of 11.2 μg/m³ observed in Lower Subansiri district, Arunachal Pradesh, in 2019 and the largest annual PM2.5 of 119.0 μg/m³ observed in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi in 2016. The model estimated an increase in annual all-cause death rates by 8·6% (6·4–10·8) per 10 μg/m³ in annual PM2.5 exposure.
 
The authors further highlighted some limitations of the study, including that - as with all models - there will be some uncertainty in the estimates, but say their results indicate previous estimates of deaths linked to chronic PM2.5 pollution exposure in India are considerably underestimated, stressing the need to progress rapidly and comprehensively towards reducing the levels of air pollution across India.   

Established in 2019, the CHAIR-India consortium serves as a platform to convene researchers working to address the research gaps in the health effects of air pollution in India. 

About CHAIR-India

The Consortium for Climate, Health and Air Pollution Research in India (CHAIR-India) was established in May 2019 as a platform to convene researchers working to address the research gaps in the health effects of air pollution in India.  Exposure scientists and health researchers from across the country came together to explore the scope for collaborative work to enhance the evidence base for the health effects of air pollution in India. 

Logos of CHAIR-India Partners:

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Orientation Week 2024: Embarking on an Enlightening Journey

On August 17 and 18, 2024, 51��� proudly welcomed its newest cohort with a vibrant and engaging Orientation Week. This thoughtfully curated, week-long program was designed to integrate incoming students into the Ashoka community and lay the foundation for a successful academic journey.

The week commenced with a distinguished Welcome Session featuring key university leaders, including Professor Somak Raychaudhury, Vice-Chancellor, and Dr Pramath Raj Sinha, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees. Their addresses provided a comprehensive overview of 51���’s illustrious history, current achievements, and future aspirations, emphasising the institution’s dynamic nature and the opportunities and challenges awaiting new students.

The opening days concluded with the incoming cohort meeting their respective Resident Assistants, and the paraprofessionals tasked with guiding students through the nuances of residence life at Ashoka. This engagement ensured a smooth transition as students settled into their new living environment.

The Orientation sessions on Day 3 began with a compelling keynote by Vice Chancellor Somak Raychaudhury, who discussed "21st Century University Education." His examination of global educational trends and the pivotal role of research sparked curiosity and lively discussions among students, culminating in an engaging Q&A session.

Following the keynote, Ms. Jinny Uppal from the Centre for Social Impact and Philanthropy (CSIP) introduced students to the centre’s diverse opportunities, including research projects, internships, and rural immersion programs. She encouraged students to engage with and contribute to the centre’s initiatives, highlighting the importance of innovation and social impact.

Dean of Academic Affairs, Dr. Bikram Phookun, offered valuable advice on navigating academic challenges. Drawing on personal anecdotes, he emphasised the importance of resilience and adaptability. The day transitioned into an Academic Expo, which unfolded over three days, allowing students to explore various academic departments and pathways.

Over the next two days, students participated in a series of experiential workshops, which provided hands-on previews of diverse beyond classroom interests. A total of twenty-four workshops, blending fun with discovery, were conducted. Students were also introduced to their cohort leaders, who would assist with their acclimation to university life.

Day 4, the focus then shifted to broader societal issues and extracurricular activities. Dr. Madhavi Menon, Director of the Centre for Studies in Gender and Sexuality, led a thought-provoking session on "Introduction to Gender and Sexuality." She explored gender fluidity concepts and challenged traditional binaries, fostering deeper understanding among students.

External speaker Mr. Obi Unaka led a session titled "Substance to Screen," offering a comprehensive analysis of addiction. He addressed both substance abuse and behavioural dependencies, such as screen addiction, in a focused, interactive setting.

The day progressed with Sopaan, a treasure hunt that added an element of playful competition. Sports workshops followed, promoting team spirit and physical well-being while encouraging students to build connections with their peers.

Day 5, Ms. Reena Gupta, Director of the Office of Learning Support, provided insights into inclusivity by outlining support systems for students with diverse learning needs and physical disabilities. She shared transformative experiences from students who benefited from these services, underscoring Ashoka’s commitment to fostering an inclusive academic environment.

Ms. Arvinder J. Singh, Director of the Ashoka Centre for Well-being (ACWB), highlighted the university’s dedication to student well-being. She emphasised the centre’s confidential counselling services and a range of support options designed to assist students with academic and personal challenges.

In the session "Crafting a Diverse Class," external speaker Ms. Arti Chaudhry underscored the importance of inclusivity and respect for diverse perspectives, setting a welcoming tone for the university environment.

The following day addressed university discipline and legal awareness. Ms Anu Singh, Co-chair of the Committee Against Disciplinary Infractions, detailed the university’s policies on infractions and addressed student questions in a lively Q&A session.

The day progressed with the event "A Decade of Ashoka," featuring reflections from Mr Ashish Dhawan (Founding Chairperson, Board of Trustees), Professor Rudrangshu Mukherjee (Chancellor), and Mr. Eshwara Venkatesam (Pro Vice-Chancellor). They provided insights into the university’s remarkable journey over the past decade and shared its vision for future growth. Students engaged enthusiastically during the Q&A, asking Mr. Dhawan about his experiences and entrepreneurial journey.

Ms. Tatyana Kostochka, Co-Chair of the Committee Against Sexual Harassment, led a session on sexual harassment, covering issues of consent and outlining available resources for student support. This session, followed by a discussion on anti-ragging measures led by Professors Mukul Sharma and Aparna Chaudhary, reaffirmed 51���’s commitment to creating a safe and supportive campus environment. The professors addressed various forms of ragging and clarified what constitutes ragging within a university setting. They also provided students with contact information for whom to reach out to if they witness ragging or become victims themselves.

On the final day of Orientation Week, the IT team, led by Ms. Annie Matthew, Vice President of IT, conducted an informative session on Ashoka's digital infrastructure, covering university applications, MoveInSync, AMS, and Wi-Fi access.

Ms. Gitanjali Rana, Director of Global Education, presented global opportunities and exchange programs, encouraging students to connect with peers from international programs.

A town hall meeting with Pro Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Rama Malik, followed, where students were engaged with her professional journey and campus opportunities. The pre-lunch closing event featured a significant town hall with Ms. Shalini Mehrotra, Dean of Student Affairs, and her team. This session allowed students to interact directly with the Office of Student Affairs team addressing questions about campus life and support services.

After lunch, Ms. Priyanka Chandhok, Vice President of Career Development and Postgraduate Studies, conducted a session on career development and placements, offering insights into future career prospects. Dr. Shantanu Ganguly, Director of the HDFC Library, and his team, then familiarised students with the library's physical and digital resources.

In the session "Introduction to Student Government," students were introduced to the roles and responsibilities of student leaders, outlining how they can contribute to shaping campus life. The grand finale, Shaam-e-Jazbaa, a beloved Ashoka tradition, brought together the incoming cohort for an evening of talent and creativity, including performances in dance, music, poetry, and film. The event was further enlivened by a surprise flash mob.

The Queer Mixer, supported by Professor Bittu and Ms Sunita Bansal, provided a welcoming space for a supportive and inclusive environment for all within the university community.

Orientation Week 2024 exemplified 51���’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, dynamic, and intellectually stimulating environment. Through a series of meticulously planned events and sessions, the week laid the foundation for a transformative academic journey, equipping students with the knowledge, resources, and enthusiasm needed for a meaningful and impactful experience at Ashoka.

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The Ashoka Centre for Translation partners with Penguin Random House India to unveil ‘Chronicles’

The Ashoka Centre for Translation, in collaboration with Penguin Random House, proudly announces the launch of Chronicles, a groundbreaking non-fiction translation series aimed at bringing creative-critical textual narratives from various Indian languages into English. Supported by the prestigious Manju Deshbandhu Gupta Fellowship, Chronicles seeks to serve as both an archive and a resource, offering readers a wide array of thoughts, ideas, histories, and life stories from across India. Releasing under Penguin’s Vintage imprint, the first of the books under the series is set to release in December 2024.

Through meticulously curated translations, the series aims to shed light on specific moments and movements from India's past to the present, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the country's rich heritage. The inaugural lineup of Chronicles features a diverse selection of works, each offering a unique perspective on Indian society, history, and culture. From memoirs and autobiographies to critical essays and biographies, the series promises to captivate readers with its wide-ranging exploration of the human experience.

Tamil: Ninaivu Alaigal by Dr. T.S.S. Rajan, translated by N. Kalyan Raman, is a sharply observed memoir chronicling a nuanced exploration of socio-political dynamics and personal evolution from the perspective of a progressive, reformist, nationalist, and politician.

Telugu: Yatra Smrithi by Dasarathi Krishnamacharya, translated by T. Vijay Kumar, is an autobiography capturing the poignant narrative of a poet and anti-Nizam rebel, offering a striking story of the making of Telangana's history.

Kannada: Selected Essays of Kirtinath Kurtakoti, translated by Kamalakar Bhat, is a collection of critical essays providing insightful perspectives on arts, aesthetics, and literary practices in South Asian societies. 

Marathi: Raghnak: The Saga of Mahar Landlordism by Shekhar Govindrao Korde, translated by Prashant Ingole, unveils the extraordinary life of Raghunath Mahar, an illiterate member of the ‘untouchable’ caste who rose to prominence as the ‘Kuber of Vidarbha’.

Gujarati: Mari Hakikat by Narmadashankar Dave, translated by Abhijit Kothari, arguably the first autobiography in Gujarati by the prominent writer and social reformer, sheds light on the literary and social changes occurring in Gujarati society during the colonial encounter of the 19th century. 

Hindi: Nij Jivan Ki Chhata, the once-banned autobiography of Ram Prasad Bismil, translated by Awadhesh Tripathi, recounts the daring exploits of Bismil and his fellow revolutionaries and offers an affective glimpse into the trials and triumphs of India's freedom struggle.

Assamese: Anandaram Dhekial Phukan’s Jivan Charitra by Gunabhiram Barua, translated by Banani Chakravarty, provides a biographical window into the process of Assamese modernity during British colonial rule.

Kannada: Bharatayatre by Lakshmisha Tolpadi, translated by Vanamala Viswanatha, winner of the Sahitya Akademi Award 2023 (Essays), is a thought-provoking examination of the Mahabharata in the contemporary context, illuminating moral complexities.

Bengali: Amar Katha by Binodini Dasi, translated by Arunava Sinha, is an original, convention-defying autobiography by the Bengali theatre actress popularly known as Nati Binodini. The book is a combination of two works: My Story and My Life in Acting. 

Malayalam: A Women’s History of Malayalam Theatre by Sajitha Madathil, translated by Jayasree Kalathil, traces a transformative narrative placing women firmly in Kerala's theatre and public sphere, from folk theatre and performance arts to political activism. The book won the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award for best book in 2010.

Commenting on the upcoming books, Professor Arunava Sinha and Professor Rita Kothari, Co-Directors, Ashoka Centre for Translation, remark, ‘This series marks the beginning of a sustained effort to expand the readership for great books of non-fiction from India through translation.’ 

Adding to this, Manish Sabharwal, Vice-Chairman and Co-Founder, Teamlease, says, ‘The Manju Deshbandhu Gupta Fellowships aim to bring works from Indian languages into English through high-quality translations that unlock India's treasures for the world.’

Elizabeth Kuruvilla, Associate Publisher, Vintage, Penguin Random House India, says, ‘While books in translation have been receiving enormous attention lately, this has been more prominently in the genre of fiction. It’s exciting to be able to bring to readers in English some of the most stimulating non-fiction writings that have been taking place in different Indian languages. The Ashoka Centre for Translation’s passionate work in the field is to be credited for the series Chronicles taking root, and I cannot thank them enough, and in particular the Manju Deshbandhu Gupta Fellowship, for supporting this invaluable series.’

Milee Ashwarya, Publisher, Adult Publishing Group, Penguin Random House India, says, ‘Chronicles, a unique collaboration between the Ashoka Centre for Translation and Penguin Random House India, for translation of important non-fiction works will be a landmark series. I am proud of this initiative, and I look forward to publishing the books.’

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