Every winter, India’s cities transform into smog-choked zones, where air pollution claims over 1.7 million lives annually—accounting for 18% of the country’s total deaths.
Imagine waking up to a sky that isn’t blue but grey—every breath feeling heavier, every moment filled with an invisible threat. For millions across India, this isn’t a figment of imagination. It’s reality. Air pollution is claiming over 1.7 million lives each year—that’s one life lost every 19 seconds.
The Smoggy Reality
- Over 1.67 million deaths in India were attributed to air pollution in 2019 (Lancet report).
- Nearly 63% of the population is exposed to hazardous AQI levels, far exceeding the World Health Organisation's safety limits.
- Economic losses due to pollution amount to 1.36% of India’s GDP.
- Vehicular emissions, industrial smoke, stubble burning, and dust are major contributors.
- Delhi, the world’s most polluted capital, frequently records AQI levels above 400+, putting millions at risk of respiratory illnesses and long-term health complications.
- The economic cost of air pollution? A staggering $150 billion annually, driven by lost productivity and healthcare expenses.
But amid this grim reality, a new wave of startups is emerging, developing groundbreaking solutions to battle the smog and reclaim our skies. From real-time air quality monitoring to green tech innovations, these changemakers are rewriting India’s fight against air pollution.
The question is: Can innovation outpace the pollution crisis? Let’s explore the startups that are making it happen. 🚀
Startups Taking on India’s AQI Crisis
Here’s a comprehensive list of startups actively tackling air pollution in India through innovative technologies and solutions: Air Quality Monitoring & Data Analytics
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Ambee
: Provides hyperlocal air quality data through AI-powered sensors and APIs for enterprises and individuals.
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Blue Sky Analytics
: A climate tech startup using satellite data and AI to track air pollution and help policymakers make informed decisions.
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Airveda
: The first Indian company to create portable air quality monitors, widely used by schools and hospitals for pollution control.
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Respirer Living Sciences
: Develops real-time air quality monitoring devices, such as Atmos, for urban and industrial spaces.
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Devic Earth
: Uses its patented Pure Skies technology to reduce air pollution by up to 50%, benefiting cities, factories, and healthcare facilities.
Air Purification Technology
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Chakr Innovation
: Converts diesel generator emissions into inks and paints using proprietary emission control technology.
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Graviky Labs
: Creates ink (Air-Ink) from captured air pollution particles, converting emissions into usable materials.
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Carbon Clean
: Provides CO₂ capture technology for industries to reduce emissions, contributing to air pollution mitigation.
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Shudhvayu
: Designs affordable air purifiers tailored for Indian homes and offices, focusing on high-efficiency filtration.
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VayuGrid Holdings Pvt. Ltd
: Develops biofuel from renewable resources, reducing reliance on polluting fossil fuels.
Sustainable Transportation
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Yulu
: Offers shared electric scooters to reduce vehicular emissions in urban areas.
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BluSmart
: Operates 100% electric cabs in major cities, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional fuel-powered taxis and reducing carbon footprints.
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Bounce Infinity
: Provides electric two-wheelers with battery-swapping technology to promote sustainable transportation.
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Altigreen Propulsion Labs
: Designs hybrid retrofit solutions for vehicles, improving fuel efficiency and reducing pollution.
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Lithium Urban Technologies
: Focuses on electric fleet management for corporate transportation, cutting down on emissions.
Agricultural Pollution Control
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Takachar
: Develops portable machines that convert crop residue (stubble) into bio-products, preventing stubble burning.
- FarmER (Farm Equipment Rentals) : Offers mechanised alternatives to stubble burning, such as Happy Seeders and Super SMS.
Renewable Energy Solutions
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Oorja Energy Engineering Services
: Provides renewable energy-based cooking and heating solutions for rural areas, reducing indoor air pollution.
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Skilancer Solar
: Uses robotic cleaning systems for solar panels, enabling cleaner energy generation without water usage.
Community Awareness & Engagement
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AirOK Technologies Pvt limited
: Aims to create awareness about indoor air pollution and offers customised air purification solutions for schools and hospitals.
- UrbanSciences : Partners with city governments to implement urban forestry projects to improve air quality.
These startups are paving the way for a cleaner and healthier future by addressing air pollution through technology, awareness, and sustainable practices. With their innovative solutions, they are tackling one of India’s most pressing environmental challenges.
Future Outlook: Clear Skies Ahead?
With stricter regulations, expanding EV infrastructure, and cleaner technologies, India is poised to make significant strides. However, collaboration across government, industries, and citizens remains critical.
🌱 A Call to Action: What Can We Do?
The air around us is a silent enemy, but we don’t have to surrender. As individuals, there are powerful steps we can take to fight back and protect our health, our communities, and our future.
- Switch to Greener Commuting: Opt for electric vehicles, carpooling, or cycling.
- Invest in Indoor Air Quality Solutions: Use air purifiers and maintain ventilation systems to ensure healthier indoor air.
- Support Local Initiatives: Get involved with or donate to local initiatives working toward cleaner air.
- Stay Informed & Track Air Quality: Use real-time AQI monitoring apps to stay ahead of pollution spikes and know when it's unsafe to go outdoors.
- Create a Clean Air Zone at Home: Invest in air purifiers and keep windows closed on high-pollution days. Indoor plants, like snake plants and peace lilies, can naturally help filter the air.
- Adopt Sustainable Practices: Reduce reliance on fossil fuels—consider electric vehicles, carpooling, or even cycling when possible.
- Support Green Startups & Initiatives: Back businesses and organisations dedicated to improving air quality.
- Raise Awareness: Advocate for stronger environmental policies, cleaner technologies, and sustainable urban planning.
It’s not just about surviving—it’s about thriving. Together, we can create a future where clean air isn’t a privilege, but a right. The fight starts with each of us, one breath at a time.
Together, we can breathe easier!
FOUNDER at INNOVIA ACADEMY
2wI agree
Co-Founder at Atovio | Making Clean Air Accessible for All | IIT Kanpur
3wThis article highlights a vital truth: air pollution isn’t just an environmental issue, it’s a public health crisis. At atovio, we’ve developed the Pebble, a portable air purifier tested at Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, designed specifically for India’s pollution challenges. While we focus on empowering individuals, true change requires collective action—stronger policies, better awareness, and collaboration across industries. Let’s work together to make clean air a reality for all. Open to connecting with others passionate about solving this crisis!
Air pollution is a critical challenge, and it’s inspiring to see startups driving change with innovative solutions. At atovio, we’re proud to contribute with the atovio Pebble—India’s first portable air purifier tailored to combat our unique air quality challenges. Tested at Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, it’s a step toward empowering individuals with clean air solutions, but real progress demands collective action. Together, let’s innovate, collaborate, and build a future where clean air is a right, not a privilege.
𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡. & 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 | 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 (𝐑𝐞 𝐍𝐮𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐡 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 | 𝐇𝐚𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 | 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐔𝐩𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞)
4wThere are a lot of startups who are working on air quality and provide solutions. But, we need to understand the exact root cause and that part can't be adhered to without government norms. Vehicles, industries, constructions, corps burning and other aspects are the root cause. Everyone knows. What are the solutions in that area? Top Up solutions like air purifiers and all is not the solution. These are precautionary steps. The government has to prepare a committee who comes with some guidelines that could control at least major parts of pollution sources and reasons.
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