Kanpur: The Center of Excellence on Advanced Technologies for Monitoring Air-quality Indicators (ATMAN-CoE) at the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur successfully convened an international workshop on “Smart Sensing and Digital Intelligence for Clean Air and Good Health” recently, at a hotel in Pune.The workshop brought together leading international experts, policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, and development partners to deliberate on one of the most pressing global challenges—air pollution and its growing impact on public health.The workshop highlighted cutting-edge advancements in air quality monitoring, including hybrid monitoring networks that integrate satellite data, regulatory systems, and low-cost sensors, as well as artificial intelligence-driven forecasting and decision-support systems. A key highlight of the workshop was the launch of a Virtual Reality experience of the Mobile Real-Time Source Apportionment (RTSA) Laboratory, alongside demonstrations of indigenous machine learning-integrated particulate matter sensors.During the workshop, several important knowledge products were released to support evidence-based policy and implementation efforts, including a guidebook on Hybrid Air Quality Monitoring Network, a practical implementation guide for Dynamic Hyperlocal Air Quality Source Apportionment (DHSA), a policy brief on a data-driven framework for air quality management in Lucknow and Kanpur, and a policy note addressing Bihar’s household energy transition.The workshop featured inaugural and keynote addresses by distinguished leaders from government institutions, research organizations, and international bodies, reflecting a strong commitment to science-driven air quality management. Speakers highlighted the importance of integrated, data-driven, and scalable solutions to tackle air pollution, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions such as India.A series of thematic panel discussions enabled in-depth dialogue on critical issues related to air quality governance and technology. Experts deliberated on the role of public awareness and open data in shaping effective air quality policies, the need for cross-sectoral integration across transport, energy, and health systems, and the importance of international knowledge exchange ranging from satellite-based monitoring to street-level sensing technologies.These discussions underlined the significance of global collaboration, data transparency, and localized interventions in achieving sustainable improvements in air quality. The workshop also served as an important platform to bridge the gap between research, policy, and implementation by showcasing ATMAN-CoE’s innovations in large-scale sensor deployments, hyperlocal air quality analytics, AI-based forecasting models, and digital decision-support systems designed to support governance and policy actions.Participants further engaged in an Experience Pavilion and a series of technology demonstrations, which encouraged collaboration and partnerships among stakeholders.The workshop is expected to accelerate the adoption of smart sensing technologies and digital intelligence tools across cities and states, while strengthening international cooperation in the field of air quality management. By bringing together diverse stakeholders from across sectors, the workshop reaffirmed IIT Kanpur’s leadership in advancing innovative, scalable, and policy-relevant solutions aimed at achieving cleaner air and improved public health outcomes in India and beyond.—————-eom
