Foul skies, fading light: How air pollution is stealing India's sunshine

The article discusses the issue of declining sunshine hours in India due to air pollution. Over the past 30 years, India has experienced a reduction in the number of sunshine hours, primarily attributed to increased cloud cover, aerosols, and local weather patterns. The article cites data from the India Meteorological Department, which shows a significant decrease in sunshine hours in various regions across the country. This reduction in sunshine has potential implications for various sectors, including agriculture, renewable energy, and human health. The article suggests that the rise in air pollution, particularly from industrial and vehicular emissions, is a major contributing factor to the decline in sunshine hours. The presence of aerosols and other pollutants in the atmosphere can scatter and absorb solar radiation, leading to a reduction in the amount of sunlight reaching the Earth's surface. The article emphasizes the need for comprehensive strategies to address air pollution and its impacts on the environment, highlighting the importance of policy interventions, technological advancements, and public awareness campaigns to mitigate this issue.