ThePrint PureScience: India is losing its sunshine to cloud cover, poor air quality
Oct 19, 2025
A new study reveals India has experienced a significant decline in sunshine hours over three decades. The research shows the most dramatic drops are in the Northern Plains and the Himalayas. Seasonal patterns illustrate sharp reductions during monsoon months due to pollution and cloud interactions. This loss of sunlight threatens solar energy production and crop growth. Interestingly, there’s hope for reversal if air quality improves, as cleaner skies could boost solar output and benefit overall health.
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Widespread Decline In Sunshine Hours
- A peer-reviewed study found India's sunshine hours declined across most regions from 1988–2018.
- The Northern Plains lost about 13 hours of sunshine per year, totaling nearly 400 hours over 30 years.
Seasonal Pattern Hides Long-Term Dimming
- Sunshine remains seasonally variable but bright months are dimming compared to the past.
- October–May are relatively stable while June–July see sharp drops during the monsoon.
Aerosols And Cloud Changes Reduce Sunlight
- Researchers link the dimming to aerosols scattering and absorbing sunlight and altering cloud microphysics.
- Aerosols create clouds with smaller droplets that live longer and reflect more sunlight back to space.