Addressing PFAS contamination in India: a call for comprehensive action, policy progress, and pathway forward

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have detrimental impacts on both the environment and human health. They belong to a broad family of fluorinated compounds with carbon chains of varying lengths that are partly or fully fluorinated. The three PFAS compounds that are currently listed as industrial POPs under the Stockholm Convention are PFHxS, PFOA, and PFOS. Because of their toxicity, bioaccumulation, and persistence, PFAS have become significant environmental pollutants on a global scale. In India, PFAS pollution is on the rise, especially in industrial areas with little environmental monitoring. The sources, environmental destiny, and transportation of PFAS in important Indian states are the main topics of this critical assessment, which also highlights the concerns to human health and the environment, particularly exposure to drinking water. The necessity of developing policies and guidelines to address PFAS exposure in India, as well as the roles played by various stakeholders, was the main topic of this review. It provides a concise evaluation of India's current regulatory measures and policy frameworks, acknowledging both the country's advancements and shortcomings in the fight against PFAS pollution. To lessen PFAS pollution in India, this will also examine possible avenues for future advancements, such as enforcing stricter regulations, implementing creative management techniques, and raising public and educational awareness. The findings highlight the necessity of enacting stricter laws, extending monitoring networks, raising stakeholders and public knowledge, and making well-informed policy decisions. The alternatives and sustainable methods for PFAS reduction in various industries were also highlighted in this research.