Fundamentally, the NKN has been conceived as a coordinating hub to streamline the flows of information and funding within the National Clean Air Plan. The NKN, generally speaking, has been tasked with forming technical and scientific advice while also incorporating inputs received from MoEF&CC, CPCB, SPCBs, ULBs, and Institutes of Repute (IoRs).
As such, some of the roles attached to the NKN have been summarized as follows:
- To provide recommendations to the CPCB for air quality management measures including specific research and policy needs to meet the objectives of NCAP
- To help with local capacity building at Institutes of Repute (IoRs), State Pollution Control Boards and other stakeholders. Additionally, to help CPCB identify IoRs to be assigned as knowledge partners to each city.
- To provide technical support to CPCB towards achieving consistency and uniform QA/QC, create standard protocols and guidelines for the implementation of the NCAP.
- To provide CPCB with scientific support, data analysis, field study guidance documentation towards the NCAP.
- To aid CPCB monitor the progress of NCAP implementation and evaluate performance.
- To suggest guidelines and framework for the financial aspects for each planned intervention by IoRs to maintain uniformity in engagements with Urban Local Bodies and State Pollution Control Boards, and in the larger planning process.
- To streamline information, inputs, suggestions and feedback including best practices received from IoRs.