The Supreme Court of India has taken a proactive role in addressing the pressing issue of stubble burning, a major factor contributing to air pollution in Delhi and nearby states such as Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. This practice, particularly prevalent after the harvest season, exacerbates air quality issues each winter, resulting in severe health and environmental consequences. Over the years, the Supreme Court has issued numerous directives aimed at curbing this practice, ensuring accountability, and mitigating pollution.
1. Initial Focus on Air Quality: The Supreme Court initially concentrated on air pollution in Delhi due to vehicular emissions, advocating for a transition to cleaner fuels like Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). However, the scope soon expanded to encompass other pollution sources, including stubble burning from surrounding regions.
2. Shift to Stubble Burning: From 2017, the Supreme Court began focusing on stubble burning due to its significant role in deteriorating air quality in Delhi and its adjoining areas. The court established a task force to explore solutions, recommending incentives for farmers to adopt eco-friendly alternatives.
3. Holding the Government Accountable: In 2019, the Supreme Court ruled that local administrations would be accountable for managing stubble burning. This landmark decision mandated that local governments, farmers, and enforcement agencies implement effective measures to curb the practice.
4. Formation of CAQM: In 2020, the government set up the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to replace the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA). This commission was tasked with enforcing pollution control measures across Delhi-NCR and monitoring stubble burning.
5. Court’s Criticism of CAQM: Despite CAQM's formation, the Supreme Court criticized the body for its inaction and ineffective enforcement. In recent hearings, the court highlighted ongoing stubble burning incidents, questioning CAQM's operational efficacy and urging immediate action to control air pollution.
6. Recent Developments in 2023: Although CAQM reported a reduction in stubble burning incidents in Punjab (48%) and Haryana (67%) from 2021 to 2023, the Supreme Court noted that over 200 incidents were still recorded in September 2023. The court reiterated the necessity for stronger enforcement and proactive measures to avert further environmental degradation.
The Supreme Court has pointed out various gaps in the implementation of measures to combat stubble burning. Although initiatives, such as promoting machinery like Happy Seeders to manage crop residue without burning, have been introduced, their adoption remains limited due to high costs and logistical challenges. The court has also criticized both state and central governments for failing to fully implement its directives, particularly concerning providing viable alternatives to farmers and addressing their economic concerns.
The Supreme Court's engagement in tackling stubble burning highlights the complexities involved in addressing air pollution in India. Although some progress has been made, the court continues to call for stronger enforcement and accountability from both government entities and regulatory bodies like CAQM. Sustainable solutions and immediate actions are critical to preventing the recurrence of toxic air and ensuring a healthier environment.
Q1. What is the Supreme Court's role in stubble burning issues?
Answer: The Supreme Court plays a crucial role by issuing directives to regulate stubble burning and holding local governments accountable for pollution control measures.
Q2. How has stubble burning affected air quality in India?
Answer: Stubble burning significantly contributes to air pollution in Delhi and neighboring states, worsening air quality each winter and leading to health risks for residents.
Q3. What initiatives have been introduced to combat stubble burning?
Answer: Initiatives include promoting machinery like Happy Seeders for crop residue management without burning and providing incentives to farmers for eco-friendly practices.
Q4. What are the recent developments regarding stubble burning in 2023?
Answer: While there was a reported decrease in stubble burning incidents, the Supreme Court emphasized that the issue remains significant, with calls for urgent action and better enforcement.
Q5. What challenges do farmers face in adopting alternatives to stubble burning?
Answer: Farmers often encounter high costs and logistical difficulties in adopting alternative practices, which can hinder the transition away from stubble burning.
Question 1: What is the main focus of the Supreme Court's directives regarding stubble burning?
A) Promoting industrial growth
B) Ensuring accountability in pollution control
C) Reducing vehicular emissions
D) Increasing agricultural production
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which commission was formed to address air quality management in Delhi-NCR?
A) Environment Pollution Authority
B) National Green Tribunal
C) Commission for Air Quality Management
D) Pollution Control Board
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: What alternative method is promoted to manage crop residue without burning?
A) Traditional plowing
B) Happy Seeders
C) Chemical fertilizers
D) Manual harvesting
Correct Answer: B
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