Haryana Sets an Example in Stubble Management: CM Khattar Praises Farmers Efforts

Haryana has emerged as a frontrunner in stubble management, showcasing a remarkable decline in farm fires. CM Manohar Lal Khattar commended farmers contributions and outlined the states effective strategies, including financial incentives and innovative practices.

Chandigarh, December 16: Haryana has emerged as a model state in stubble management, showcasing remarkable progress in curbing farm fires. Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar highlighted this achievement during the CM ki Vishesh Charcha program, where he interacted with farmers through audio conferencing.

Significant Reduction in Stubble Burning

Khattar lauded the efforts of Haryana's farmers in reducing stubble burning incidents. According to an official release, the state has witnessed a significant 36.4 percent decrease in stubble burning cases compared to the previous year. This stands in contrast to Punjab, which saw a decline of only 27.1 percent.

Innovative Measures for Stubble Management

Haryana has implemented several innovative measures to address stubble management. One such initiative is the establishment of a unique precedent nationwide by fixing a rate of Rs 2,500 per tonne for stubble purchase. Additionally, a provision has been made for an extra payment of Rs 500 per tonne for stubble with less than 20 percent moisture content.

Incentives for Gram Panchayats

To further incentivize effective stubble management, the state government has introduced rewards for gram panchayats. A reward of Rs 1 lakh is offered to panchayats that transition from the category of highly sensitive villages in terms of crop residue burning to the zero crop residue burning category. Similarly, panchayats that move from sensitive villages to zero crop residue burning receive a Rs 50,000 reward.

Promoting Low Water-Consuming Crops

Recognizing the importance of water conservation, the Haryana government has launched the Mera Pani Meri Virasat scheme. This scheme promotes low water-consuming crops by providing a grant of Rs 7,000 per acre for crop diversification in paddy fields. The initiative has led to a reduction in stubble quantity and has disbursed around Rs 118 crore to farmers.

Custom Hiring Centres and Subsidies

To prevent pollution caused by crop residue burning, the state has established over 6,700 custom hiring centers since 2018. These centers provide farmers with access to crop residue management equipment, and so far, 80,071 such equipment have been distributed. Farmers have also received subsidies worth Rs 685 crore, and 6,130 machines have been purchased on subsidy in the current fiscal year. An incentive of Rs 1,000 per acre is offered for both in-situ and ex-situ management to encourage the use of these machines.

Stubble Utilization for Biofuel Production

Haryana is exploring innovative ways to utilize stubble. On August 10, 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 2G ethanol Plant at Panipat Refinery, followed by the establishment of a 3G plant at the same refinery. These plants convert stubble into biofuel, offering an eco-friendly solution for stubble management.

Exploring Opportunities in African Countries

Given the diminishing agricultural land in Haryana, the state government is exploring opportunities for Haryana farmers to cultivate in African countries. Discussions are underway to make this initiative a reality, providing farmers with additional avenues for agricultural production.

Government Support to Farmers

Khattar emphasized the government's unwavering support to farmers at every stage, from sowing seeds to selling produce in markets. He highlighted the recent floods that affected several districts in the state and the assistance provided to affected farmers. Compensation of Rs 112.21 crore was disbursed to 34,511 farmers for crop damage, and 49,197 acres were replanted.

Haryana's success in stubble management serves as an inspiration for other states grappling with the issue of farm fires. The state's innovative measures, coupled with farmer cooperation, have demonstrated that effective stubble management is achievable, leading to improved air quality and sustainable agriculture practices.