“Pollution Poses a Greater Threat to India Than Tariffs,” Shashi Tharoor Backs Economist Gita Gopinath

Former IMF Chief Economist and Harvard University Professor Gita Gopinath has reframed pollution not merely as a health or social issue but as a significant economic risk—a perspective supported by senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor.

Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Thursday, Gopinath highlighted that the internal economic costs of pollution, such as health burdens and reduced workforce productivity, far exceed potential risks from changing trade tariffs. Her statement underscores a growing recognition that India’s economic stability is closely linked to air and water quality.

Political Support and Administrative Suggestions

Several Indian leaders advocating environmental reforms have endorsed Gopinath’s view. Shashi Tharoor reiterated these concerns, noting that he has spent the past decade attempting to place air pollution at the center of political discourse. Despite conducting roundtable discussions for ten years, it is only recently that public and global attention has focused on the issue.

Tharoor suggested a major administrative change: the creation of a dedicated “Air Quality Czar” within the Prime Minister’s Office to oversee the National Clean Air Mission. Such a role would coordinate efforts across multiple government departments, ensuring that environmental targets are met through centralized and streamlined action.

He tweeted, “For 10 years, I have conducted roundtables on air pollution, but political support was lacking. It is relieving that this year, the issue has gained public consciousness and global attention. We need a clean air campaign, with an Air Quality Czar to compel all relevant departments to work together.”

Economic Costs of Pollution

Recent studies indicate that air pollution alone costs India approximately 1.36% of its GDP annually, primarily due to lost workdays and increased healthcare expenditures. In northern India, recurring smog seasons frequently result in school and construction site closures, harming local economies and deterring foreign investment in regions deemed hazardous to worker health.