New Measures Proposed to Tackle Stubble Burning in Northern India

New Regulations to Address Stubble Burning

The Ministry of Environment has unveiled a proposal aimed at establishing new regulations to combat stubble burning across Delhi and several northern states, including Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.

According to the draft regulations, any farmland where stubble burning occurs will be classified under a 'red category' for a duration of 15 months following the incident. However, the implications of this classification are not yet fully defined.

If further instances of stubble burning are detected on the same land, or if any imposed environmental compensation remains unpaid during this period, the red classification will extend for an additional 15 months, as stated in the draft rules released on Wednesday.

The proposed regulations maintain the environmental compensation rates for stubble burning that were established in 2023.

Farmers deemed responsible for stubble burning will incur fines based on the size of their agricultural land: Rs 5,000 for less than two acres, Rs 10,000 for land between two and five acres, and Rs 30,000 for areas exceeding five acres.

Additionally, the draft includes provisions for the use of environmental compensation funds, which will support initiatives such as crop diversification programs, the development of biomass utilization and storage facilities, and research in crop-residue management.

The government is currently seeking feedback from stakeholders within a 60-day window.