Air pollution

Air pollution | Sociology Optional Coaching | Vikash Ranjan Classes | Triumph IAS | UPSC Sociology Optional

When considering the array of 51 optional subjects for the UPSC Mains Examination, Sociology consistently stands out as a top choice. Its inherent appeal lies in its accessibility and intriguing exploration of humanity and society, catering even to students from Science and Commerce backgrounds. With a well-defined UPSC sociology syllabus comprising only 13 units, Sociology can be comprehensively covered within 5 to 6 Month Comprehensive “Foundation to Finale” Classroom Programme, Many of Our Sociology Foundation Course Students have Cleared CSE 2023- Kajal Singh, First Attempt (Age 22) Mahi Sharma, First Mains (Age 23), Anand Sharma First Mains and Many Others. Previously also Many students like IAS Pradeep Singh, IAS Ashish, IPS Bindu Madhav, IPS Aparna Gautam, IPS Shahnaz Illyas got Success in CSE in First Attempt with Sociology Optional.

IAS Medha Anand, has get 310 marks in her optional subject sociology, 156 in paper – 1 &  154 marks in Paper -2 in CSE 2023. Notably, Sociology for UPSC has garnered a reputation as one of the Highest scoring optional subjects in the UPSC Main Examination, with numerous candidates consistently achieving 300+. Its popularity is evident in the fact that a significant proportion of top 100 rankers opt for Sociology as their optional subject, showcasing its high scoring potential, particularly for those not from sociology backgrounds. Moreover, relevance of Sociology Optional Syllabus for UPSC extends beyond the examination hall, enriching understanding across various aspects of life, from social and economic to political and cultural domains. In recent times, Sociology Optional has gained traction, aligning with the evolving trend of the UPSC Mains towards conceptual analysis. Unlike other optional subjects with unpredictable question patterns, Sociology offers stability and predictability, making it an attractive choice. This adaptability, coupled with its concise syllabus and relevance to both academic and social spheres, positions Sociology as the ideal optional subject for engineers as well as optional subject for commerce graduates and optional subject for  science graduates seeking success in the Civil Services Examination. For those pursuing Sociology as an optional subject, accessing comprehensive Sociology optional notes and few good Sociology optional books, and previous years’ UPSC sociology optional question papers is pivotal for thorough preparation. Additionally, for aspirants seeking guidance, renowned  educator Vikash Ranjan Sir at TRIUMPH IAS coaching institutes in Delhi, offer valuable support and resources. Vikash Ranjan Sir is the Best Sociology Teacher and Triumph IAS is the
best sociology coaching in Delhi. If you are away from Old Rajendra Nagar, Delhi, you can still complete Journey of UPSC civil service preparation through online Sociology class The  scientific nature of Sociology, coupled with its direct applicability to daily social interactions, renders it a subject that can be comprehended without extensive reference materials, distinguishing it from other optional subjects requiring extensive reading and research.

Air pollution

Relevant for Civil Services Examination

GS Paper-3

Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment

Air pollution

  • Pollution is defined as the addition or excessive accumulation of certain materials in the physical environment, making it less suitable or unsuitable for living. These materials are referred to as pollutants.
  • Air pollution involves the presence of substances in the atmosphere that are detrimental to human health, other living beings, or the climate, or that cause damage to materials. Air pollutants can include various gases (such as ammonia, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, methane, carbon dioxide, and chlorofluorocarbons), particulates (both organic and inorganic), and biological molecules.

Consequences of air pollution

  • A significant number of deaths, estimated at around 2,000, have been attributed to pollution, which is quite alarming. These figures may not be entirely accurate as they are only estimates. Obtaining precise data would require extensive investigation, for which adequate manpower, time, and resources are often lacking. Therefore, a precautionary approach is essential in addressing pollution.
  • India has witnessed a 50% increase in premature deaths associated with PM 2.5 between 1990 and 2015, a period that closely aligns with the country’s economic liberalization. Air quality has emerged as a major health concern as pollutants penetrate deep into the lungs, diminishing their capacity to purify the blood. This adversely affects growth, mental ability, and overall working capacity, particularly for children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
  • The poor are particularly vulnerable to air pollution as they often spend more time on the roads, increasing their exposure to harmful pollutants.

Facts and figures

  • A new study using government data has established a connection between premature death and air pollution, contradicting recent statements by Anupriya Patel, Minister of State for Health, who had previously stated that there was no conclusive data linking air quality to mortality.
  • Researchers at the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS) in Mumbai discovered that the risk of premature mortality increased across all age groups in areas where air pollution levels exceeded national standards. The study revealed a 13% higher risk for adults, an 86% higher risk for newborns, and nearly a 120% higher risk for children aged one to five years. For infants, the risk increased by 104%.
  • The study analyzed environmental and household air pollution levels along with mortality data from the National Family Health Survey 2019-21. It found that the likelihood of premature deaths rose in districts where average concentrations of fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometres (PM2.5) were higher than the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) of 40 micrograms per cubic meter. Additionally, household air pollution from unclean cooking fuels such as firewood or cow dung, or the lack of separate kitchens, also heightened the risk of premature mortality. This study was published this week in the journal GeoHealth.

Measures to Improve Air Quality:

  • Enhancing public transportation systems
  • Reducing the number of high-emission vehicles on the roads
  • Adopting cleaner fuel options
  • Enforcing stringent emission regulations
  • Increasing efficiency in thermal power plants and industrial operations
  • Transitioning from diesel generators to rooftop solar panels
  • Promoting the use of clean, renewable energy sources
  • Expanding the adoption of electric vehicles
  • Reducing road dust through regular cleaning
  • Regulating construction activities to minimize dust and emissions
  • Prohibiting biomass burning, among other measures

The End of the Blog: Air pollution

After Class Doubts Session of Students
with Vikash Ranjan Sir


Frequently Asked Questions by
UPSC Sociology Optional Students

How to prepare for the Sociology Optional without coaching?

Understand the syllabus thoroughly: Familiarize yourself with the entire syllabus for both Paper I and Paper II. Download the official UPSC syllabus and use it as your roadmap. You can attend Sociology Orientation Lectures by Vikash Ranjan sir  on YouTube

Build a strong foundation: Start with introductory textbooks and NCERT books to grasp core sociological concepts. You can start with Introduction to Sociology books

Choose reliable study materials: Select high-quality textbooks, reference books, and online resources recommended by experts. You can opt for Vikash Ranjan Sir Notes too.

Develop a study schedule: Create a realistic and consistent study schedule that allocates dedicated time for each topic. Stick to it and track your progress.

Take notes effectively: Don’t just passively read. Summarize key points, create mind maps, or use other note-taking techniques to aid understanding and revision.

Practice answer writing: Regularly write answers to past year question papers and model questions. Focus on clarity, structure, and critical thinking. Evaluate your answers for improvement.

Seek guidance: You can take free Mentorship on Sociology Optional preparation by Vikash Ranjan sir. Connect with Vikash Ranjan sir (7303615329) to share strategies, ask questions, and stay motivated.  

Can I prepare for Sociology Optional without coaching?

Absolutely! Many aspirants successfully clear the exam through self-study. However coaching can provide structure and guidance, for time bound preparation.

What are the benefits of preparing without coaching?

Cost-effective: Coaching can be expensive, and self-study allows you to manage your resources efficiently.

Flexibility: You can tailor your study plan to your individual needs and pace.

Independence: You develop critical thinking and research skills, valuable assets for your career.

What are the challenges of preparing without coaching?

Discipline and motivation: You need self-discipline to stay on track and motivated without external guidance. Coaching and Teacher keeps you motivated.

Access to resources: You may need to do extra research to find quality study materials and answer-writing practice opportunities. Teacher help you on this respect.

Doubt clearing: You might lack immediate access to someone to address your doubts and questions. Teacher like Vikash Ranjan sir is accessible to his students 24×7   Mo- 7303615329

What additional resources can help me?

Vikash Ranjan Sir’s YouTube channel and website: Offers free Sociology lectures, study materials, and guidance.

Triumph IAS website: Provides past year question papers, model answers, and other helpful resources.

Public libraries and online databases: Utilize these resources for access to relevant books, journals, and academic articles. 


Sociology Optional Program for
UPSC CSE  2025 & 2026


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