Punjab, Haryana clash over credit for curbing stubble burning

State officials from Punjab and Haryana have publicly disputed who is truly leading the fight against stubble burning, each claiming greater success in recent weeks. The disagreement surfaced after both governments highlighted their own initiatives in media briefings, prompting a back‑and‑forth over credit for improved air quality.

Stubble burning, a seasonal practice that releases large amounts of particulate matter, continues to aggravate Delhi’s winter haze and poses health risks across the region. Central environmental agencies have repeatedly urged northern states to adopt alternative residue management methods, but implementation varies.

Punjab officials point to subsidies for farm equipment and farmer awareness campaigns as evidence of progress, while Haryana authorities cite stricter enforcement of burning bans and increased monitoring through satellite imagery. Both sides assert that their measures have led to a measurable decline in fire incidents.

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has said it is closely tracking the situation and will convene a joint review meeting with the two states to harmonise efforts and avoid duplication of resources.