Punjab CM Mann Urges Farmers to Embrace Subsidy Scheme to Combat Stubble Burning

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has reaffirmed his government's dedication to combating pollution, particularly from stubble burning, by encouraging farmers to utilize the 'Crop Residue Management Loan Scheme'. This initiative offers farmers access to crucial machinery for stubble disposal at a significantly reduced cost.

In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Mann emphasized that his administration is focused on reducing the pollution caused by stubble burning. "Our government is committed to addressing the pollution caused by stubble burning. To support this mission, we have introduced the 'Crop Residue Management Loan Scheme' through cooperative banks across Punjab," he stated.

The scheme provides farmers with Crop Residue Management (CRM) machines at a subsidy of 50 to 80 percent, making it easier for them to adopt eco-friendly stubble disposal methods instead of burning it.

"This initiative empowers our farmers by offering access to vital machinery for stubble disposal, with significant subsidies. We urge all farmers to take advantage of this opportunity and contribute to a cleaner, greener Punjab," Mann added.

Stubble burning has long been a pressing issue, especially in Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi. As winter approaches, pollutants from crop residue burning exacerbate air quality issues, leading to severe smog and health hazards for residents in these areas.

To tackle the problem at its root, 'flying squads' have been deployed in several districts of Punjab and Haryana. These squads will monitor incidents of stubble burning, assess the ground situation, and report daily to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). According to the Ministry of Environment, these efforts will be focused in hotspot districts from October 1, 2024, to November 20, 2024, where stubble-burning incidents are typically high.