405 Air Purifiers Bought for Ministers, VVIP Lounges in 4 Years: Govt
In a recent revelation, the government has disclosed that a total of 405 air purifiers have been purchased for various government offices, VVIP lounges, courtrooms, and other high-profile areas over the past four years. This information was made public by Housing and Urban Affairs Minister of State, Tokhan Sahu, during a session of the Lok Sabha on Thursday. The air purifiers, which were procured by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD), were purchased at a cost ranging from ₹15,000 to ₹1.50 lakh per unit.
The procurement of air purifiers is a significant step towards improving the indoor air quality in government offices and other areas where high-ranking officials and dignitaries frequent. The move is particularly noteworthy, given the growing concerns about air pollution in the country, which has been exacerbated by factors such as industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and construction activities.
According to the information provided by Minister Sahu, the air purifiers were purchased through the government’s online procurement portal, which ensures transparency and efficiency in the procurement process. The use of the online portal also helps to minimize the scope for corruption and ensures that the procurement process is fair and competitive.
The purchase of air purifiers for government offices and VVIP lounges is a clear indication of the government’s commitment to providing a healthy and safe working environment for its officials and employees. The air purifiers will help to remove pollutants and particulate matter from the air, thereby reducing the risk of respiratory problems and other health issues associated with poor air quality.
The fact that the air purifiers were purchased for a wide range of areas, including courtrooms and Supreme Court judges’ chambers, highlights the government’s efforts to ensure that all aspects of the judiciary and executive branches are equipped with modern amenities and facilities. The provision of air purifiers in these areas will not only improve the working conditions for judges, ministers, and other officials but also contribute to a more efficient and productive work environment.
The cost of the air purifiers, which ranged from ₹15,000 to ₹1.50 lakh per unit, is a significant investment in the health and well-being of government officials and employees. While some may argue that the cost is excessive, it is essential to consider the long-term benefits of providing a healthy working environment, which can lead to increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and improved job satisfaction.
In recent years, India has struggled to combat the growing problem of air pollution, which has become a major public health concern. The country has been ranked among the most polluted in the world, with many cities experiencing hazardous levels of air pollution during the winter months. The government has launched several initiatives to address the issue, including the National Clean Air Programme, which aims to reduce particulate matter levels by 20-30% in the next five years.
The purchase of air purifiers for government offices and VVIP lounges is a positive step towards mitigating the effects of air pollution, at least in these specific areas. However, it is essential to recognize that this is only a small part of the solution, and more comprehensive measures are needed to address the broader issue of air pollution in the country.
In conclusion, the procurement of 405 air purifiers for government offices, VVIP lounges, and other areas is a significant investment in the health and well-being of government officials and employees. While the cost may seem excessive to some, it is essential to consider the long-term benefits of providing a healthy working environment. The government’s efforts to improve indoor air quality in these areas are a positive step towards mitigating the effects of air pollution, and it is hoped that similar initiatives will be extended to other areas of the country in the future.
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