Stubble burning, also known as parali burning, is the practice of setting fire to leftover crop residue in fields after harvest. This is a prevalent practice in North-West India, particularly in states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
- Quick and inexpensive method: Farmers find it to be a quick and cheap way to clear their fields for sowing the next crop.
- Lack of alternatives: Limited access to or awareness of alternative methods for crop residue management.
Impacts of Stubble Burning
- Air Pollution: Stubble burning is a major contributor to air pollution, particularly PM2.5 particles, leading to respiratory problems and health issues.
- Soil Degradation: Burning destroys essential nutrients and microbes in the soil, reducing fertility and long-term productivity.
- Climate Change: Releases greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change.
Government Initiatives:
- National Policy on Sustainable Agriculture (2015): Promotes crop residue management practices.
- Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM): Provides subsidies for machinery like Happy Seeder that can sow seeds directly into the stubble.
- Financial incentives: Schemes to encourage farmers to adopt alternative practices like composting or baling.
- National Green Tribunal (NGT) bans: Imposed bans on stubble burning with penalties for violations.
Source: The Hindu