Punjab News: In a renewed effort to curb the menace of stubble burning, the Punjab government is set to re-strategize the Information Education Communication (IEC) aspect of the Crop Residue Management (CRM) scheme. The initiative aims to involve local leaders and health workers to persuade farmers to adopt scientific methods for crop residue disposal, thereby reducing the harmful practice of burning stubble.
Ajit Balaji Joshi, Secretary of Agriculture, will chair a crucial meeting on Tuesday to gather feedback from chief agriculture officers and other field staff on how best to convince farmers to abandon farm fires during the upcoming paddy season. This feedback will inform the new strategies aimed at promoting sustainable farming practices.
Role of Sarpanches and ASHA Workers
As part of the revamped campaign, the agriculture department will collaborate with the panchayat and rural development department in every district. Sarpanches, the elected heads of village councils, will play a key role in the anti-stubble burning campaign. They will be educated on the latest technologies available for the scientific management of crop residue and will lead efforts to communicate these practices to farmers in their communities.
Additionally, Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA workers) will be mobilized to go door-to-door, distributing literature on the harmful effects of stubble burning. These grassroots workers will provide critical support in spreading awareness and educating farmers on alternative methods of managing crop residue.
Financial Support for Anti-Stubble Burning Initiatives
The Punjab government has allocated Rs 1 lakh to each district to support Food Producers Organizations (FPOs) that are actively involved in controlling stubble burning. These funds are intended to facilitate the adoption of best practices in crop residue management and encourage community-driven solutions to this pressing environmental issue.
Government’s Commitment to Reducing Farm Fires
This renewed focus on re-strategizing the anti-stubble burning campaign reflects the Punjab government’s commitment to addressing the environmental and health hazards posed by farm fires. By involving local leaders and health workers in this critical campaign, the government hopes to significantly reduce the incidence of stubble burning and promote sustainable agricultural practices across the state.
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