Sikkim has reinforced its position among India’s cleanest states, with all monitored locations recording air quality in the ‘Good’ or ‘Satisfactory’ category during the first eight months of 2026. This was what data released by the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) reveal. The data, collected from eight air quality monitoring stations between January and August, showed that no location in the Himalayan state recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) above 100 during the period. The highest AQI reading of 81 was recorded at Rangpo in East Sikkim in February. Despite being among the higher readings in the state, it remained within the ‘Satisfactory’ category and well below the ‘Moderate’ pollution threshold. Sikkim’s high-altitude regions reported particularly clean air. Pelling in West Sikkim recorded AQI levels of just 19 in July and 20 in August, placing it firmly in the ‘Good’ category. Similarly, Chungthang in North Sikkim maintained consistently low AQI readings, ranging between 28 and 31 during the eight-month monitoring period. Other parts of the state, including Ravangla and Namchi in South Sikkim and Mangan in North Sikkim, also largely recorded ‘Good’ air quality, with pollution levels remaining particularly low during the monsoon months. The three monitoring stations in East Sikkim — Rangpo, Singtam and Deorali — reported relatively higher AQI readings, mostly ranging between the 40s and 60s. However, all three locations remained below the level considered ‘Moderate’ under India’s National Air Quality Index classification. The findings stand in sharp contrast to the situation in the national capital, where Delhi’s air quality slipped into the ‘Very Poor’ category on November 2 for the first time this season. The deteriorating conditions prompted the Commission for Air Quality Management to enforce Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan. With Diwali approaching on November 8, concerns remain over a further decline in Delhi’s air quality. Under the National AQI framework, readings between zero and 50 are classified as ‘Good’, indicating minimal health impact, while prolonged exposure to ‘Very Poor’ air can lead to serious respiratory health concerns. The State is endowed with rich floral and faunal diversity. Species wise, the State harbors over 4500 flowering plants, 550 Orchids, 36 Rhododendrons, 16 Conifers, 28 Bamboos, 362 Ferns and its allies, 9 Tree Ferns, 30 Primulas, 11 Oaks, over 424 Medicinal plants, 144+ mammals, 550 Birds, 48 Fishes and over 600 Butterflies. While these figures are still not absolute, it may be kept in mind that this is only the mega-fauna and flora.
How Sikkim Breathes Easy ?
