Impact of Coal Power Plants on India’s Agriculture

Coal-fired power plants are harming the India’s rice and wheat production. The study reveals that these plants may reduce yields by up to 10% in several states. This decline is primarily due to emissions such as nitrogen dioxide, which stress plants and hinder their growth.

Pollutants from Coal Power Plants

Coal-fired power plants release various pollutants. These include carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and sulphur oxides. These emissions contribute to environmental problems like smog and acid rain. Nitrogen oxides are particularly harmful as they are phytotoxic. They interfere with plant cellular functions and contribute to ozone formation, further damaging crops.

Research Methodology

The researchers used satellite data to assess nitrogen dioxide levels across India. They focused on coal-related NO2 emissions affecting agricultural areas. By employing the near-infrared reflectance of vegetation (NIRv) as an indicator of plant health, they linked NO2 levels to crop yield reductions. This innovative approach allowed them to quantify agricultural losses without needing extensive field measurements.

Regional Variations in Pollution

The study found regional differences in coal pollution’s impact. For instance, Chhattisgarh experienced the highest NO2 pollution from coal plants. In contrast, Uttar Pradesh had high overall NO2 levels but less from coal. Tamil Nadu showed low NO2 pollution levels, with most stemming from coal sources. This indicates that coal’s contribution to air pollution varies by state.

Economic Implications of Crop Damage

The financial impact of crop damage is substantial. The study estimates losses of up to $17,370 per gigawatt-hour for wheat and $13,420 for rice. Notably, a small percentage of coal power generation during the monsoon and winter seasons accounted for rice and wheat losses. Targeting specific high-polluting power stations could enhance agricultural productivity .

Potential Yield Improvements

Eliminating coal-related nitrogen dioxide could lead to considerable yield gains. The study suggests that rice and wheat production could see annual increases of $420 million and $400 million, respectively. This translates to improved yields across vast tracts of cropland in key states. Current yield growth averages are low, denoting the potential benefits of addressing this issue.

Policy Recommendations

The research calls for informed policy reforms. Policymakers should consider the agricultural impacts of coal pollution alongside health and greenhouse gas emissions. By prioritising pollution control in the most affected areas, benefits can be achieved for both the agricultural and power sectors.

Future Research Directions

The lead researcher, Kirat Singh, aims to further investigate the broader impacts of coal power on agriculture in India. Future studies may explore how other pollutants affect crop productivity. About these dynamics is crucial for developing effective policy measures.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the impact of air pollution on food security in India.
2. Critically examine the role of coal in India’s energy sector and its environmental consequences.
3. What are the effects of nitrogen oxides on plant health? Explain with examples.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the relationship between industrial emissions and agricultural productivity in India.

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the impact of air pollution on food security in India.

1. Air pollution, particularly from coal-fired power plants, contributes to crop yield losses, notably in rice and wheat.
2. Research indicates that pollution can reduce agricultural productivity by up to 10%, exacerbating food insecurity.
3. India’s Global Hunger Index ranking marks the urgent need for improved food security measures.
4. Pollutants like nitrogen dioxide (NO2) stress plants, impairing their growth and reducing yields.
5. Addressing air pollution can lead to substantial economic gains in agriculture, enhancing food availability.

2. Critically examine the role of coal in India’s energy sector and its environmental consequences.

1. Coal is a primary energy source in India, crucial for economic growth and electricity generation.
2. The 2025-2026 Union Budget increased funding for coal, indicating its continued importance.
3. However, coal combustion releases harmful pollutants, including CO2 and nitrogen oxides, leading to severe environmental issues.
4. These pollutants contribute to smog, acid rain, and health problems, denoting a conflict between energy needs and environmental health.
5. Transitioning to cleaner energy sources is necessary to mitigate these environmental impacts while meeting energy demands.

3. What are the effects of nitrogen oxides on plant health? Explain with examples.

1. Nitrogen oxides (NOx) are phytotoxic, causing stress to plants and hindering their cellular functions.
2. They interfere with crucial enzymatic activities, leading to reduced growth and crop yield.
3. NOx contributes to ozone formation, which further damages crops by limiting photosynthesis.
4. Research shows that increased NO2 levels correlate with declines in plant health, as measured by vegetation indices like NIRv.
5. Examples include yield losses in rice and wheat due to elevated NO2 concentrations from coal emissions.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the relationship between industrial emissions and agricultural productivity in India.

1. Industrial emissions, particularly from coal-fired power plants, release pollutants that negatively impact crop yields.
2. For instance, Chhattisgarh experiences high NO2 pollution from coal, leading to substantial agricultural damage.
3. Research indicates that targeting specific high-polluting power stations can improve agricultural productivity .
4. In contrast, states like Uttar Pradesh have high NO2 levels but less impact from coal, showing regional variability.
5. Overall, reducing industrial emissions is essential for enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring food security in India.