Punjab News: Punjab has achieved a significant milestone in reducing stubble-burning incidents, with cases dropping by 73% compared to last year. Between October 1 and November 5, the number of farm fires fell from 17,403 in 2023 to just 4,755 during the same period in 2024. This remarkable achievement highlights the Punjab government’s proactive approach and the dedication of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s administration to tackling this persistent issue.
Collaboration and Awareness Drive Success
Under the guidance of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), district administrations took stringent measures, including suspensions and show-cause notices to field staff for negligence. The state’s agriculture and panchayat departments worked tirelessly to raise awareness among farmers about the harmful effects of stubble burning and provided solutions to address their challenges. Punjab’s Director of Agriculture, Jaswant Singh, credited the success to these concerted efforts, combined with active support from various state departments.
Steady Progress in Paddy Harvesting and Procurement
By November 8, Punjab had harvested 75% of its paddy crop, with 110.92 lakh metric tonnes already procured out of the targeted 185 LMT. Farmers’ delayed harvesting due to overcrowded grain markets did raise concerns of a late surge in farm fires. However, the government’s swift actions prevented any significant escalation.
A Call for Center-State Cooperation
While Punjab’s achievements have garnered praise, including recognition from the Union Agriculture Minister, CM Bhagwant Mann has called on the central government to provide the necessary support for the state’s efforts. He emphasized that constructive collaboration, rather than criticism, is essential to achieving long-term environmental and agricultural goals.
The significant decline in farm fires marks a victory for sustainable farming practices and sets a positive example for other states to follow.
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