Stubble burning has become a prevalent practice among farmers in northern states such as Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. This method involves burning paddy crop residues to clear fields for the upcoming winter crops. However, this practice significantly contributes to air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR) between September and November.
The primary reason farmers engage in stubble burning is the urgent need for quick field clearance. Many farmers lack access to economically viable alternatives to this practice. Unfortunately, burning stubble has detrimental effects on air quality and the surrounding environment.
Several innovative solutions are being considered to address the issue of stubble burning:
The solutions being explored aim to provide farmers with sustainable alternatives to stubble burning. By implementing these methods, it is possible to reduce air pollution in the NCR, promote sustainable agriculture, and efficiently utilize crop residues.
Adopting sustainable agricultural practices not only mitigates air pollution but also enhances soil health. These practices can lead to increased agricultural productivity and create economic opportunities for farmers, benefiting both the agricultural community and the environment.
Q1. What is the issue with stubble burning in northern states of India?
Answer: Stubble burning leads to severe air pollution, especially in the NCR, as farmers burn crop residues to prepare for winter crops from September to November.
Q2. Why do farmers rely on stubble burning?
Answer: Farmers often resort to stubble burning for quick field clearance due to a lack of economically feasible alternatives, which harms air quality.
Q3. What solutions are being explored to combat stubble burning?
Answer: Solutions include using CRM machines for in-situ management, creating biochar, utilizing Happy Seeder technology, and co-firing biomass for energy.
Q4. Why are these solutions important?
Answer: These solutions help reduce air pollution, promote sustainable farming practices, and efficiently utilize crop residues, benefiting the environment and farmers.
Q5. How do sustainable practices benefit farmers and the environment?
Answer: Sustainable practices enhance soil health, increase productivity, reduce pollution, and provide economic opportunities, benefiting both farmers and the ecosystem.
Question 1: What is a major consequence of stubble burning in northern India?
A) Improvement in soil quality
B) Air pollution increase
C) Enhanced crop yield
D) Decrease in pests
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which machine allows for direct sowing of wheat without burning stubble?
A) Crop Residue Management
B) Biochar Maker
C) Happy Seeder
D) Thermal Power Generator
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: What is biochar primarily used for?
A) Energy generation
B) Soil fertility improvement
C) Crop harvesting
D) Air purification
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Which state is most associated with the practice of stubble burning?
A) Maharashtra
B) Gujarat
C) Punjab
D) Kerala
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: What is one method of co-firing crop residues?
A) Using them for animal feed
B) Burning them in open fields
C) Co-firing in thermal power plants
D) Converting them to biofuel
Correct Answer: C
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