As India battles another season of hazardous air, new data from Policybazaar highlights how air pollution is straining both public health and household finances. The report finds that children account for nearly 43% of all pollution-linked health insurance claims, making them the most affected group, while hospitalisation costs for respiratory and cardiac illnesses have climbed by 11% over the past year.

Pollution-related ailments now form 8% of all hospitalisation claims, according to the analysis, which tracked data over the past four years.

The surge is particularly visible after Diwali — a period when India’s air quality typically drops from “moderate” to “severe” due to stubble burning, firecrackers, and stagnant winter air.

Post-Diwali claims up 14%

The report shows a consistent

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