CAQM Issues Fresh Directions to Curb Stubble Burning in North India

In a decisive step to combat seasonal air pollution, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has issued a set of mandatory directions to Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh to prevent incidents of paddy stubble burning. This move comes in compliance with the Supreme Court’s order in the M.C. Mehta vs. Union of India case and is aimed at improving the air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR) and its adjoining states during the paddy harvesting season.

Why in News?

The CAQM directive is significant as stubble burning continues to be one of the primary contributors to hazardous air pollution in North India, especially during winter months. With the air quality in Delhi-NCR deteriorating annually due to biomass burning, CAQM’s comprehensive directions aim to institutionalize preventive and sustainable agricultural practices to curb farm fires effectively.

Key Directions by CAQM

• Formation of a Dedicated Parali Protection Force:
• To include police officers and agriculture department officials for strict vigilance and enforcement.
• Mandatory Use of Paddy Straw Pellets/Briquettes in Brick Kilns:
• Similar to their usage in thermal power plants for co-firing, reducing raw straw burning.

Mapping of Each Farm

• To determine appropriate stubble management techniques like in-situ (on-field) or ex-situ (off-field) processing and crop diversification.

Common Procurement Rate for Paddy Straw

• Punjab and UP to fix a uniform rate for straw purchase, in line with Haryana’s model, incentivizing farmers.

Promotion of Ex-Situ Management Practices

• Encouraging the use of balers, rakers, and other machinery to remove and utilize crop residue efficiently.

Technology Integration

• Establishing a real-time data platform for consistent monitoring and reporting of stubble burning incidents.

Inventory Review of Crop Residue Management (CRM) Machines

• States to conduct detailed assessment of available equipment and ensure optimal deployment.