Answer

Introduction

Stubble burning, a major contributor to air pollution in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana, peaks during October–November when adverse weather traps toxic emissions from crops, vehicles, and industry. Recently, the Supreme Court of India also considered prosecuting farmers for this practice. Despite awareness and regulations, it remains a persistent environmental and health challenge.

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Environmental Impacts of Stubble Burning

• Air Quality Deterioration: Uncontrolled stubble fires emit toxic particulate matter and worsen smog formation.
  Eg: In Delhi-NCR, particulate pollution during October–November spikes when farm fires from Punjab & Haryana coincide with stagnant winter air.
• Transboundary Pollution: Pollution spreads beyond state borders, demanding cooperative action.
• Climate Impact: Large-scale farm fires after monsoon retreat release massive CO₂ and black carbon, aggravating global warming.
• Soil and Land Degradation:Repeated stubble fires in Punjab and Haryana damage long-term fertility and reduce the sustainability of wheat-paddy cycles.
• Biodiversity Threats: Fires destroy habitats, affecting insects, birds, and small mammals, including migratory birds and pollinators, by reducing nesting and feeding grounds in northern India.

Health Impacts of Stubble Burning

• Respiratory Disorders: Every winter, Delhi hospitals report a surge in asthma, bronchitis, and COPD cases linked to stubble burning and other emissions.
• High Exposure in Vulnerable Groups: Children, elderly, and outdoor workers bear the highest risk.
  Eg: October–November smog episodes severely impact school-going children and urban slum populations.
• Long-term Health Risks: Recurring smog from stubble burning in the NCR contributes to higher incidences of cancer and heart disease.
• Allergic Reactions: Smoke triggers allergic rhinitis, skin irritation, and exacerbates sinusitis due to high levels of particulate matter and chemical residues.

Measures to Mitigate Stubble Burning

• Strengthening CAQM’s Independence: Ensure freedom from political pressure and greater transparency.
  Eg: CAQM’s failure to publish true fire data shows urgent need for independent functioning.
• Promotion of Crop Residue Management Technologies: Encourage the use of machines like Happy Seeders, rotavators, and bio-decomposers that allow sowing without burning crop residue.
  Eg: Punjab government distributed 56,000 machines for in-situ management of stubble this season.
• Development of Bioenergy and Industrial Uses: Convert crop residue into biofuel, pellets, or electricity, creating a market for agricultural waste.
• Strengthening Law Enforcement and Monitoring: Use satellite imaging, drones, and GIS technology to track and penalize stubble burning, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
• Enforcement of Existing Laws: Stronger accountability for recurring violations.
  Eg: Current weak enforcement in Punjab & Haryana enables repeat burning despite legal prohibitions.
• Long-term Crop Diversification Strategy: Reduce dependence on paddy-wheat cycle driving stubble burning.
  

Conclusion

Addressing stubble burning requires independent CAQM enforcement, transparent monitoring, and strong farmer incentives. As suggested by expert committees, long-term solutions lie in crop diversification, residue management technologies, and cooperative interstate frameworks. Only by blending enforcement with viable alternatives can India ensure clean air and public health security in the NCR.

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