The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led government of Punjab has made an urgent appeal to the Central government to fully fund the Crop Residue Management Scheme. This initiative aims to address the critical issue of crop residue burning, a major contributor to air pollution in the region, including Delhi NCR and Haryana.
Financial Burden: Punjab’s Plea for Increased Financial Support
Punjab, known as the “breadbasket of India,” has long grappled with the environmental and health consequences of stubble burning. The state government is now seeking a restoration of the funding pattern for the Crop Residue Management Scheme to 100% central funding, as it was prior to 2023-24. This change would alleviate the financial burden on the state and incentivize farmers to adopt alternative methods of crop residue disposal.
Farmer Compensation: A Key Component in Tackling Stubble Burning
In addition to full funding, Punjab is advocating for compensation to farmers for the management of paddy stubble. This financial incentive would encourage farmers to invest in machinery and techniques for in-situ management of crop residue, thus reducing the incidence of stubble burning. The state government believes that this approach, combined with the promotion of crop diversification, is crucial for effectively tackling the air pollution crisis.
Key Takeaways:
| Key Learning Points |
|---|
| Punjab seeks 100% central funding for the Crop Residue Management Scheme. |
| The state is advocating for compensation to farmers for paddy stubble management. |
| Punjab aims to tackle the stubble burning menace and resultant air pollution in the region. |
| The proposed measures align with the crop diversification plan to promote sustainable agriculture. |
Summary: The Punjab government has urged the Central government to fully fund the Crop Residue Management Scheme and provide compensation to farmers for managing paddy stubble. This appeal comes as the state grapples with the environmental and health consequences of stubble burning, a practice that contributes significantly to air pollution in the region. By restoring full central funding and offering financial incentives to farmers, Punjab aims to promote sustainable agriculture practices and mitigate the harmful effects of crop residue burning.
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
