📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / MODIS Land Rapid Response Team, NASA GSFC
Agriculture
40% of Paddy Straw in Punjab, Haryana Not Burnt This Season, Says Environment Minister
✍️ News18
🗓 04 Nov 2026, 02:02 AM
👁 17
Union Environment Minister highlighted that 40% of paddy straw in Punjab and Haryana was managed without burning this season, marking a significant step towards reducing air pollution.
The Union Environment Minister announced that this agricultural season saw 40% of the paddy straw in Punjab and Haryana handled without resorting to open‑field burning. The statement underscores a notable improvement over previous years, when large portions of straw were set alight, contributing to severe haze across northern India.
Authorities have been promoting alternative uses for the residue, such as incorporation into the soil, conversion into bio‑fuel, and the creation of compost. Farmers in the two states reportedly adopted these methods on a larger scale, aided by subsidies and awareness campaigns.
Environmental groups welcomed the data, noting that reduced straw burning can lower particulate matter levels and improve air quality during the winter months. The ministry plans to continue monitoring the practice and expand support mechanisms to achieve higher compliance in the coming seasons.
Authorities have been promoting alternative uses for the residue, such as incorporation into the soil, conversion into bio‑fuel, and the creation of compost. Farmers in the two states reportedly adopted these methods on a larger scale, aided by subsidies and awareness campaigns.
Environmental groups welcomed the data, noting that reduced straw burning can lower particulate matter levels and improve air quality during the winter months. The ministry plans to continue monitoring the practice and expand support mechanisms to achieve higher compliance in the coming seasons.