The air pollution crisis in India has brought to light the detrimental practice of stubble burning by farmers. Experts suggest that the government should hasten the execution of alternatives to stubble burning to mitigate its harmful effects. Amidst the protests against farm laws, the government had pledged to exclude the stipulation in the Air Commission Bill, 2021, that would hold farmers accountable for stubble burning – a major cause of toxic air quality.
Understanding Stubble Burning
Stubble burning, also known as parali burning, involves setting crop residue ablaze to clear the field for the next crop. This is a common practice among farmers in Haryana and Punjab, who are often under tight schedules due to the changing patterns of winter. The biggest advantage seen in stubble burning is the swift and cost-effective removal of crop remains. Moreover, leaving stubble in the field may invite pests such as termites, posing a threat to the next crop. Unfortunately, the farmers’ grim financial circumstances often force them to resort to this method, rather than opting for more expensive mechanized techniques of stubble removal.
What Causes Stubble Burning?
One of the main causes of stubble burning is the use of mechanized harvesting. This process leaves behind a substantial amount of stubble. Previously, farmers utilized this excess crop for various purposes, including cooking and keeping their animals warm. However, with the passage of time, these practices have faded away. Moreover, laws like the Punjab Preservation of Subsoil Water Act (2009) have indirectly promoted stubble burning. The act exacerbates the problem by aligning the timeframe for stubble burning with the winter season. The high silica content of rice straw, particularly in non-basmati varieties, has also exacerbated the issue as it reduces its usefulness as cattle fodder.
Detrimental Effects of Stubble Burning
Stubble burning has serious implications, both for human health and the environment. It results in the release of toxic pollutants, including methane, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, and carcinogenic hydrocarbons, into the atmosphere. These pollutants can cause serious health issues by creating a dense smog. Moreover, the practice adversely affects soil fertility by eliminating essential nutrients, leading to deteriorating soil health over time. The heat from the fires also causes a drastic loss of moisture and beneficial microorganisms present in the soil.
Exploring Alternatives to Stubble Burning
The government and various research bodies are exploring alternatives to stubble burning. For instance, in-situ treatment of stubble such as crop residue management using zero-till machines and bio-decomposers could be effective. In terms of ex-situ treatment, the use of rice straw as cattle feed is being promoted. Other technological advancements like the Turbo Happy Seeder (THS) machine, capable of uprooting stubble and sowing seeds simultaneously, offer promising solutions. Changes in cropping patterns are also being considered as a sustainable solution.
The Way Forward
Imposing fines on farmers burning stubble is not a practical solution considering the socio-economic realities in India. Instead, the focus should be on providing access to alternative solutions. Ensuring that machines for in-situ management are available to all, and not just a select few, would be a step in the right direction. Moreover, companies have begun collecting stubble for industrial applications, which needs to be encouraged and expanded. Smaller farmers, who often lack resources, require support to implement in-situ strategies for stubble management. Without access to practical alternatives, penalizing farmers for stubble burning may prove to be counter-productive.
