Paddy Stubble Burning Reduction in 2025

The period from September 15 to October 5, 2025, witnessed a significant decline in paddy stubble burning incidents across various states. Notably, Punjab and Haryana, known for this polluting practice, recorded a dramatic decrease of 51% and 95%, respectively. Madhya Pradesh also saw a 20% reduction during the same timeframe.

Efforts to Curb Stubble Burning

A high-level meeting on crop residue management was convened, attended by the Union Agriculture Minister and environment ministers from Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi. The discussion emphasized the importance of financial incentives, monitoring, and subsidies on residue management machines to combat stubble burning.

State-Specific Measures and Challenges

• Punitive and Supportive Measures:
  • Punitive measures have been effective in Haryana, while Punjab has seen success through a mix of in-situ and off-situ measures.
  • Madhya Pradesh, despite similar measures, has not achieved notable results.
• Geographical Implications:
  • The proximity of Punjab and Haryana to Delhi makes smoke from stubble burning a significant concern due to its impact on air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR).
  • In contrast, Madhya Pradesh's open spaces facilitate quicker dispersion of smoke.

Environmental Impact

A study by the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research highlighted a 75% increase in greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural residue burning between 2011 and 2020. Punjab was identified as a major contributor, with rice being the largest source of emissions.

Challenges Ahead

The 2025 season presents unique challenges due to an extended monsoon, delaying paddy harvests and potentially narrowing the window for non-polluting stubble management before wheat sowing. Heavy rains in Punjab have exacerbated this issue.

State Government Initiatives

• Punjab has sanctioned 15,000 new crop residue management machines, of which 12,500 have been procured by paddy growers.
• A Rs 500 crore action plan has been devised to manage paddy straw sustainably.
• The Supreme Court has advocated for strict measures against stubble burning, proposing jail for non-compliance, though this has faced criticism.

Financial and Market Solutions

• Experts suggest that financial incentives, such as a 'no-burning bonus' and direct benefit transfers, may be more effective than machinery subsidies.
• Custom hiring of farm equipment and market-driven pricing are recommended to reduce costs and encourage responsible practices.
• Alternative uses for paddy straw, such as biomass power, biofuels, and cattle feed, are being explored.