Punjab's Stubble Burning Initiative: A Sustainable Approach for 2023

Introduction

Punjab is taking significant steps to address the critical issue of stubble burning, aiming to enhance air quality and protect public health. This commitment aligns with parallel initiatives being implemented by the Delhi government, marking a proactive approach to a pressing environmental challenge.

Key Issues and Commitments

Issue: Stubble burning in Punjab is a major contributor to air pollution, impacting not only the region but also the air quality in Delhi.

Commitment: The Punjab government has pledged to reduce incidents of stubble burning by 50% this year, with an ambitious goal of completely eliminating the practice in six designated districts.

Data and Tools

Data: Approximately 31 lakh hectares of land are used for paddy cultivation, producing around 20 million tonnes of paddy straw annually.

Tools: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has mandated comprehensive mapping of Crop Residue Management machines, focusing particularly on small and marginal farmers to enhance their capabilities.

Related Actions and Collaboration

Related Actions: The Delhi government plans to unveil a "winter action plan" aimed at reducing air pollution. This will include innovative measures such as greening pavements and introducing electric buses.

Collaboration: The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi has called for collaborative efforts among states to tackle air pollution, especially during the paddy season when stubble burning peaks.

Stubble Burning: Why is it an Issue?

• Air Pollution: The burning of crop residue releases numerous harmful pollutants into the atmosphere.
• Health Impact: It leads to respiratory issues and other health problems among the population.
• Environmental Damage: Stubble burning adversely affects local flora and fauna, and contributes to climate change.
• Soil Health: This practice depletes essential nutrients from the soil, impacting agricultural productivity.
• Visibility: Smoke from burning stubble significantly reduces visibility, posing risks to transportation.

What are the Alternative Solutions to Stubble Burning?

• Mechanical Removal: Machines like rotavators can effectively remove stubble from fields.
• Mulching: This technique improves soil fertility and eliminates the need for harmful burning practices.
• Biomass Energy: Crop residues can be utilized as raw materials to produce biomass energy.
• Animal Feed: Certain types of stubble can serve as fodder for livestock.
• Community Programs: Initiatives by the government and NGOs aim to purchase stubble for recycling and alternative uses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is stubble burning and why is it problematic?
Answer: Stubble burning refers to the practice of burning leftover crop residue after harvest. It is problematic because it contributes to severe air pollution, posing health risks and environmental damage.

Q2. What measures is the Punjab government taking against stubble burning?
Answer: The Punjab government has committed to reducing stubble burning incidents by 50% this year and aims to eliminate it entirely in six districts.

Q3. How does stubble burning affect public health?
Answer: Stubble burning releases harmful pollutants that can cause respiratory issues, aggravate allergies, and lead to other health complications in the affected population.

Q4. What alternative solutions exist for managing crop residue?
Answer: Alternatives include mechanical removal, mulching, using biomass energy, providing animal feed, and community recycling programs that repurpose stubble.

Q5. Why is collaboration important in addressing air pollution?
Answer: Collaborative efforts among states are crucial for effectively tackling air pollution, especially during peak agricultural activities like the paddy season when stubble burning is rampant.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary commitment of the Punjab government regarding stubble burning in 2023?
A) Complete elimination of stubble burning in all districts
B) Reduction of stubble burning incidents by 50%
C) Increase in paddy cultivation
D) Introduction of new pollution control laws
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which organization has mandated the mapping of Crop Residue Management machines?
A) Ministry of Agriculture
B) Commission for Air Quality Management
C) Delhi Pollution Control Board
D) National Green Tribunal
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What health issues are associated with stubble burning?
A) Skin diseases
B) Respiratory problems
C) Heart diseases
D) Digestive issues
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Which of the following is an alternative to stubble burning?
A) Burning crop waste
B) Mechanical removal of stubble
C) Increased use of fertilizers
D) Delayed harvesting
Correct Answer: B