Think Before You Burn Crop Residue – Heavy Fines and Legal Action Ahead!

Now there is no apology for burning stubble

Krishi Dunia

• 08 Apr, 2025 12:28 PM IST ,
• Updated Tue, 08 Apr 2025 02:11 PM

Indore, Madhya Pradesh:
The Madhya Pradesh administration has taken a strict stance on the issue of stubble burning (known locally as "Narwai") after the harvest season. With concerns rising over environmental damage and the decreasing fertility of farmland, the government has implemented firm measures. Farmers found burning crop residue in their fields will now face heavy penalties and even legal action.

Special Awareness Drive from April 5 to 16:

To curb stubble burning incidents after the wheat harvest, a special awareness campaign has been launched in Indore district. A promotional vehicle, flagged off by Collector Ashish Singh, will travel to various village panchayats to educate farmers.
Officials from the Agriculture Department, patwaris, and panchayat secretaries will jointly conduct village-level farmer interaction programs. These sessions will inform farmers about the harmful effects of stubble burning and suggest alternative residue management practices.

How Much is the Fine for Burning Crop Residue?

The government has categorized fines based on landholding size:

1. For up to 2 acres: ₹2,500 per incident
2. For 2 to 5 acres: ₹5,000 per incident
3. For more than 5 acres: ₹15,000 per incident
   Additionally, police cases may be filed, and legal action can be taken.

Harmful Effects of Stubble Burning:

According to Agriculture Deputy Director C.L. Kewra, stubble burning causes multiple serious problems:

1. Destruction of beneficial microorganisms and earthworms in the soil
2. Decreased soil fertility
3. Reduced water retention capacity of land
4. Increased fire hazards that may damage crops, property, or lives
5. Air pollution and a rise in atmospheric temperature

Easy Alternatives for Stubble Management

Farmers are encouraged to adopt the following solutions instead of burning residue:

1. Use a Straw Reaper to collect and convert stubble into fodder
2. Convert residue into bales using a Baler Machine, and sell to paper mills or biomass plants
3. Use a Mulcher Machine to mix residue back into the soil, turning it into organic fertilizer
4. Equip Combine Harvesters with a Straw Management System (SMS)
5. Use cultivators, rotavators, or disc harrows to mix residue into the soil and enrich it naturally

Crop Residue as an Income Source: According to the district administration and agriculture department, proper use of crop residue can generate additional income for farmers. It can be used as fodder for livestock, organic compost for fields, and helps preserve soil structure. Moreover, this contributes to climate control by reducing environmental pollution.

This government initiative aims not only to protect the environment but also to promote sustainable agriculture practices. With proper awareness and responsible action, farmers can avoid penalties and also unlock new income opportunities by managing crop residue effectively.

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