- By Akansha Pandey
- Sat, 27 Sep 2025 12:30 PM (IST)
- Source:Jagran News Network
To curb stubble burning after the upcoming paddy harvest at the end of October, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has held a review meeting with the governments of Punjab and Haryana. Flying squad teams will be deployed in both states to monitor hotspot districts. The state governments will direct their respective district administrations to provide all necessary facilities for these squads and keep them updated on the situation.
In meetings chaired by CAQM Chairman Rajesh Verma, officials from 23 districts in Punjab on September 25 and 22 districts in Haryana on September 26 received necessary instructions. During these sessions, the preparations of both states for the 2025 paddy harvesting season were reviewed. To prevent stubble burning, effective in-situ and ex-situ crop residue management has been made mandatory for monitoring and action in hotspot districts.
Additionally, a CAQM cell has been established at Kheti Bhawan in Mohali (SAS Nagar) to monitor paddy stubble management and pollution activities, facilitating better inter-state coordination.
Directives And Action Plan
While appreciating the efforts made by both states so far, the CAQM reiterated that its goal is to achieve zero stubble burning this season. All district administrations were directed to implement both incentive-based and deterrent statutory measures. The Commission will also conduct regular reviews to ensure the strict implementation of the approved action plans.
Key instructions Issued To Both States Include:
- Ensure the availability of Crop Residue Management (CRM) machinery and balers for the complete management of paddy residue.
- Review any deficiencies in CRM machinery and submit proposals for additional machines as required.
- Increase vigilance and regularise patrolling through the state's 'Parali Suraksha Bal' (Stubble Protection Force).
- Develop a specific plan to prevent stubble burning in pest-infested areas.
- Expedite biomass co-firing in thermal power plants to increase the industrial use of stubble.
- Make arrangements for the proper storage of stubble bales.
- Coordinate with the CAQM cell for real-time monitoring and year-round management of paddy residue.
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- Ensure compliance with the Commission's Direction 91 for the prevention of open burning of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) and other biomass.
- It was directed that farmers who burn stubble should neither be given incentives nor face punitive action.
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