With the high-pollution period linked to stubble burning approaching in Delhi-NCR, the central government has advised Punjab and Haryana to intensify preparations to control stubble-burning episodes in known hotspot districts. In an inter-ministerial meeting at Krishi Bhawan, officials noted that burning episodes may rise in the next two weeks, coinciding with the paddy harvest season in these states, particularly due to slowed harvest operations in Punjab caused by storage and quality issues.
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan acknowledged a reduction in stubble burning incidents by 35% in Punjab and 21% in Haryana compared to last year. However, he emphasized further reductions through both in-situ and ex-situ paddy straw management, calling for intensified promotion of bio-decomposers. Additionally, to address the annual Diwali-related air quality decline, officials discussed adherence to the Supreme Court’s order on firecracker restrictions and enhancing public awareness.
The Centre has allocated Rs 600 crore this year for stubble management, with Punjab, Haryana, and UP receiving Rs 150 crore, Rs 75 crore, and Rs 50 crore, respectively, to support crop residue management efforts. Punjab has pledged to handle 11.5 million tonnes of its 19.5 million tonnes of stubble using CRM machines and alternative methods. Similarly, Haryana plans to manage 3.3 million tonnes in-situ, with the rest directed towards industries for briquetting and pelletizing, highlighting ongoing state-supported initiatives to provide subsidized CRM equipment for farmers.
