Efforts to Curb Stubble Burning: Central Fund Disbursed Ahead of Paddy Straw Season

CHANDIGARH: The Central Government has disbursed a fund of Rs 105 crore to Punjab to facilitate the effective disposal of paddy straw, aiming to tackle the issue of stubble burning. As the upcoming paddy straw season approaches, the government is focusing on making necessary arrangements for its efficient management and disposal.

In its broader initiative, the central government has allocated a total of Rs 600 crore to states to support and streamline the management of paddy stubble. Haryana, another state grappling with the issue, has received Rs 90 crore from this allocation. Typically, the government provides funds to subsidize paddy stubble management equipment like 'Happy Seeder' and 'Super Seeder'. However, this year, changes have been made to the guidelines of the Crop Residue Management (CRM) scheme.

A notable addition to the scheme is the integration of 'ex situ' management of paddy straw. In 'in situ' management, harvested stubble is collected and disposed of within the field with the aid of agricultural implements such as the 'happy seeder' or 'super seeder'. Conversely, 'ex situ' management involves processing the stubble outside the field in an environmentally sustainable manner.

Authorities highlighted that under the 'ex situ' management of paddy straw, grants will be provided to the straw supply chain through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. R. Rukmini, Joint Secretary of the Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department, expressed optimism about a reduction in stubble burning incidents this year, anticipating a positive outcome from the combined adoption of 'in situ' and 'ex situ' methods by the government.

Since the inception of the Waste Management Scheme in 2018-2019, the central government has released a cumulative amount of around Rs 3,000 crore to states grappling with paddy straw disposal. Over the years, a consistent effort has been made to allocate funds, with Rs.584.33 crore in 2018-19, Rs 594.14 crore in 2019-20, Rs 570.70 crore in 2020-21, and Rs 690.9 crore in 2021-22 being disbursed under the program. The government remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing the critical issue of stubble burning and promoting sustainable waste management practices.