CAQM team reviews stubble management in Punjab, tells officials to ensure machines reach farmers on time

What happened

A high-level team led by the chairperson of the Commission for Air Quality Management in the National Capital Region and adjoining areas (CAQM) visited Ropar, Hoshiarpur and Amritsar in Punjab. The team saw thermal power plants, CBG plants, a Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), farm fields and a biomass plant.

The aim was to check preparations for handling paddy stubble during the current harvest season. The team reviewed the steps being taken on the ground to manage stubble and stop stubble burning.

What has changed

The visit did not announce any new rule or deadline. The commission gave directions to state officials. Thermal power plants were told to meet their set co-firing targets. Special stress was laid on following emission standards.

Co-firing means using farm residue such as stubble along with coal in power plants. This can reduce the need to burn stubble in fields.

What was said for farmers

At the KVK, the team saw machines that use stubble in the field itself or send it out for other use. The team also assessed whether enough machines are available to help farmers.

As paddy harvesting picks up, the commission said all related departments should coordinate more. Farmers should get Crop Residue Management (CRM) machines on time. The focus is on machine availability and their effective use, especially at the peak of harvesting.

What happens next

State authorities were told to strengthen stubble management arrangements. Fields should be actively monitored and operational gaps fixed in time. The aim is to reduce stubble burning incidents.

What it means for ordinary people

This news is directly about farmers in Punjab and officials there. Ordinary readers do not have to apply for anything or meet any date. But less stubble burning can help keep the air cleaner in areas where the smoke reaches.