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The Punjab government has reported a significant reduction in stubble burning incidents, achieving a 70% decrease from the previous year. This substantial decline is attributed to the implementation of comprehensive strategies focused on both in-situ and ex-situ management of paddy straw. The in-situ approach involves managing crop residue directly in the field, while ex-situ methods involve transporting the residue for industrial or other uses. This dual approach has proven effective in mitigating the environmental impact of stubble burning, a practice that contributes significantly to air pollution.
The report submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) highlights the success of ex-situ management, where over 6.2 million tonnes of paddy straw were handled in 2024. This represents a considerable portion of the total 19.52 million tonnes of paddy straw managed through various methods. The government's commitment to ex-situ management is evident in the substantial investment in machinery, including balers and rakes, provided on subsidy to farmers under the crop residue management (CRM) scheme. The availability of 2,183 balers and 2,039 rakes underscores the government's proactive approach to providing farmers with the necessary tools to implement ex-situ methods effectively. This accessibility significantly impacts the feasibility and uptake of these methods amongst farmers.
The success, however, is not without challenges. The report acknowledges that a shorter window between harvesting and sowing of wheat crops contributed to a surge in stubble burning incidents in previous years. This highlights the need for continuous adaptation and improvement of management strategies. The government plans to conduct a gap analysis after the harvesting season to identify areas for improvement and to determine the necessary resources for 2025. This data-driven approach ensures that the annual action plan is tailored to address specific needs and challenges. The allocation of funds based on this analysis reflects a commitment to sustainable and effective crop residue management.
The use of paddy straw as animal fodder also plays a crucial role in the overall management strategy. Diversifying the uses of the residue reduces reliance on burning as a disposal method. This holistic approach, incorporating various methods and utilizing available resources, underlines the commitment to environmental protection and sustainable agricultural practices. The 70% reduction in stubble burning is a significant achievement, but it emphasizes the necessity for ongoing efforts and refinements to maintain and further improve these outcomes. Future initiatives will need to focus on further enhancing the accessibility and affordability of the machinery required for ex-situ management, educating farmers on the benefits of alternative methods, and continuing to address the challenges imposed by the shorter window between harvesting and sowing cycles. The continued collaboration between the government, farmers, and environmental agencies will be crucial to achieving long-term reductions in stubble burning and ensuring cleaner air for the people of Punjab.
Source: Punjab reports 70 per cent reduction in stubble burning, highlights Ex-Situ management efforts