Stubble burning cases in Punjab are seeing an alarming surge, posing a significant environmental threat to the region. The Ferozepur district in Punjab has reported numerous instances of farmers resorting to stubble burning, with over 2077 cases registered so far. The situation is escalating, and it calls for urgent intervention.
Farmers, when approached for their perspective, voiced their lack of viable solutions and appealed to the government for essential support. They are urging the government to provide subsidies and Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for alternative crops, encouraging them to shift to residue management techniques without resorting to crop residue burning.
To address this growing concern, the Agriculture department has initiated counseling sessions with farmers, emphasizing the use of super seeders and other equipment for efficient residue management. Police officials and tehsildars are actively engaging with the farming community to explore practical solutions and ensure compliance with regulations. Highlighting the gravity of the issue, the Supreme Court has directed the Punjab government to take prompt action to curb stubble burning. Consequently, authorities are intensifying their efforts to extinguish stubble fires and investigate their origins. In response, farmers maintain their innocence, emphasizing their cooperation with investigations to pinpoint the true culprits behind these fires. As the number of stubble burning cases continues to rise, it remains imperative for all stakeholders to work collectively to protect the environment and find sustainable alternatives to the concerning practice.