Ozone Pollution’s Impact on India’s Food Security

April 9, 2025

In recent years, surface ozone pollution has emerged as a critical issue affecting India’s agriculture. A study by IIT Kharagpur marks the severe implications of this pollution on major food crops. The Indo-Gangetic Plain and central India are particularly vulnerable. This pollution threatens to hinder progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals of ‘no poverty’ and ‘zero hunger’ by 2030.

What Is Surface Ozone Pollution?

Surface ozone is a harmful pollutant formed by the reaction of nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds in the presence of sunlight. Unlike stratospheric ozone, which protects against UV rays, ground-level ozone poses health risks to humans and crops. It develops more rapidly in warmer temperatures where emissions from vehicles and industrial activities are high.

Health Risks of Ozone Exposure

Breathing in elevated levels of ground-level ozone can lead to serious health issues. Symptoms include chest pain, coughing, and exacerbation of asthma. Long-term exposure can cause chronic lung diseases. A study indicates a rising trend in ozone-attributable deaths, particularly in South Asia, with a 46% increase from 2000 to 2019.

Impact on Agriculture

The IIT Kharagpur study outlines the risks posed to staple crops such as wheat, rice, and maize. Surface ozone damages plant tissues, leading to visible injuries and reduced yield. Projections suggest that, under high-emission scenarios, wheat yields could decrease by 20%, while rice and maize may face losses of around 7%.

Vulnerable Regions

The Indo-Gangetic Plain and Central India are identified as regions with severe ozone exposure. In these areas, ozone levels could exceed safe limits by six times. This situation threatens not only local food security but also India’s role as exporter of food grains to Asia and Africa.

Policy Implications

While India has initiated the National Clean Air Programme to combat urban air pollution, agricultural regions often lack targeted interventions. The study calls for urgent policies to monitor and reduce ozone pollution in farmland areas. Effective emission reduction strategies could enhance agricultural productivity and contribute to global food security.

Future Projections

Using data from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase-6, researchers assessed trends and future scenarios for ozone-induced yield losses. Without adequate mitigation, the agricultural sector faces daunting challenges. Addressing these issues is crucial for achieving sustainable development goals.

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