Impact of Coal-Fired Power Plants on Crop Yield in India

Sub : Env

Sec: Climate change

Why in News

A recent study by researchers at Stanford University has revealed that coal-fired power plants in India are significantly affecting rice and wheat production, reducing yields by up to 10% in several states. The study highlights the detrimental impact of nitrogen oxides (NO₂), a byproduct of coal combustion, on crop health and productivity.

Details:

Pollutants from Coal Power Plants: Emissions from coal-fired power plants include: Carbon dioxide (CO₂), Nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), Sulphur oxides (SOₓ), Fly ash, soot, suspended particulate matter and other trace gases.
Link Between NO₂ and Crop Yield Decline: Nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) are phytotoxic, meaning they stress plants and impair their cellular functions.
NO₂ interferes with enzymatic activities, reduces photosynthesis efficiency, and contributes to ozone formation, further damaging crops.

Methodology of the Study:

Data from the TROPOspheric Monitoring Instrument (TROPOMI) was used to measure NO₂ concentrations across India.
Instead of isolating individual sources, the study summed up NO₂ emissions from multiple coal-fired plants affecting specific locations.
Vegetation Index Analysis: A satellite-derived vegetation index, Near-Infrared Reflectance of Vegetation (NIRv), was used as a proxy for plant health.
Healthy crops have high chlorophyll content, reflecting more near-infrared light.
For every 1 mol/m² increase in NO₂, the corresponding decrease in NIRv indicated a reduction in crop yield.

State-Wise Impact:

Chhattisgarh: Highest contribution of NO₂ pollution from coal plants – 19% in monsoon and 12.5% in winter.
Uttar Pradesh: High overall NO₂ levels but with a relatively smaller share from coal plants.
Tamil Nadu: Lower NO₂ pollution but with a significant portion coming from coal-fired power plants.
Potential Yield Gains if NO₂ Levels Are Reduced:
- West Bengal: 5.7% of cropland could see a 5-10% increase in yield.
- Madhya Pradesh: 5.9% of cropland could see 5-10% yield increases.
The 2025-2026 Economic Survey and energy experts highlight coal’s critical role in India’s economic growth.
The 2025-2026 Union Budget allocated 255% more funds to the Ministry of Coal compared to revised estimates of FY 2024-2025.
India faces rising food demand, ranking 105th out of 127 countries in the 2024 Global Hunger Index.