Punjab has recorded 27 incidents of stubble burning in the last five days, raising concerns about air pollution ahead of the winter season. Officials said most of the cases were reported from Amritsar, Tarn Taran, and Ferozepur districts, areas that have historically seen high numbers of farm fires.
State authorities have intensified awareness campaigns, urging farmers to adopt eco-friendly alternatives such as crop residue management machines, bio-decomposers, and crop diversification. Pamphlet distribution, village meetings, and radio campaigns are being carried out to educate farmers about the environmental and health hazards caused by stubble burning.
Punjab Agriculture Department officials stated that penalties are being imposed on violators, but the government’s focus remains on creating awareness rather than punishment. They added that support schemes and subsidies on residue management equipment are being provided to farmers to reduce the burden of switching to sustainable practices.
Every year, stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana contributes significantly to the toxic smog that engulfs Delhi and other parts of North India. With air quality already beginning to deteriorate in parts of the National Capital Region, experts warn that unchecked farm fires could worsen the situation in the coming weeks.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann recently appealed to farmers to cooperate with the government, emphasizing that protecting public health and the environment is a collective responsibility. He assured that his government is committed to helping farmers with practical solutions, but stressed that the practice of stubble burning must be eliminated.
Environmental activists have welcomed the intensified campaign but say stronger enforcement and long-term agricultural reforms are needed to address the root of the issue.
