Context:
In some Indian states, coal fired power plants are responsible for yield reductions in the range from 5 percent to 10 percent. The emissions of these plants, especially nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), are phytotoxic and reduce plant health and photosynthesis.
Astronomical estimates of the contribution of NO₂ pollution to agricultural regions were done through satellite based analysis.
Regional Influence
- Chhattisgarh: It’s 19% during monsoon and 12.5% during winter of NO₂ pollution is coal related.
- Uttar Pradesh: Though NO₂ levels are high, they are from sources other than coal.
- Tamil Nadu: Overall NO₂ concentration is lower, with a large share from coal fired plants.
- For West Bengal & Madhya Pradesh:
- Crop yields in affected areas could increase by 5 10% through pollution abatement.
- Some areas would see >10% increase in yield.
Economic & Policy Outlook
- Possible gains in crops
- Rice: $420 million/year
- Wheat: $400 million/year
- Total impact: ₹7,000 crore (~$820 million) per year.
- Crop damage per gigawatt hour (GWh)
- Wheat: Up to $17,370/GWh (₹15 lakh).
- Rice: Up to $13,420/GWh (₹11.7 lakh).
- Targeting a select few pollution intensive coal plants in India, therefore, can have considerable economic effects on agriculture.
Policy Recommendations
- Installation of pollution control equipment in coal plants with strong negative agricultural effects should be lifted as a priority.
- Strategic interventions would facilitate a blend between India’s rising energy needs and food demands.
- Agricultural impact assessments should be integrated into energy policy formulation.
Larger Context
- Coal dependence in India is still significant, the coal budget is up by 255% in the Union Budget of 2025-26.
- Food security remains a topic of concern, as India ranks 105th out of 127 in the 2024 Global Hunger Index.
Pollution mitigation in select coal plants would allow for improved energy security and food security without compromising economic growth.
