📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / NASA Earth Observatory images by Wanmei Liang, usi
Agriculture
Haryana Reduces Stubble Fires by 91% Since 2021, Boosts Winter Pollution Controls
✍️ The Economic Times
🗓 26 Sep 2026, 03:02 AM
👁 9
The state government reports a 91% drop in stubble burning incidents since 2021 and outlines new measures to curb air pollution as winter approaches.
Haryana’s environment department said that the number of stubble‑burning incidents recorded during the post‑harvest season fell by 91% compared with 2021 levels. The data, compiled from satellite monitoring and field reports, shows a steady decline over the past three years.
To sustain the trend, the state has tightened surveillance using drones and thermal imaging, imposed higher penalties for illegal burning, and expanded subsidies for farm‑machinery that can manage crop residue without fire. Training programmes for farmers on alternative uses of straw, such as bio‑fuel and fodder, have also been intensified.
Officials warned that the upcoming winter months traditionally see a spike in air‑quality problems, especially in the National Capital Region. The new measures are expected to limit particulate matter concentrations and reduce health‑related complaints.
Haryana is coordinating with neighboring Punjab and Delhi to share real‑time fire alerts and jointly enforce anti‑burning regulations, aiming for a region‑wide improvement in air quality.
To sustain the trend, the state has tightened surveillance using drones and thermal imaging, imposed higher penalties for illegal burning, and expanded subsidies for farm‑machinery that can manage crop residue without fire. Training programmes for farmers on alternative uses of straw, such as bio‑fuel and fodder, have also been intensified.
Officials warned that the upcoming winter months traditionally see a spike in air‑quality problems, especially in the National Capital Region. The new measures are expected to limit particulate matter concentrations and reduce health‑related complaints.
Haryana is coordinating with neighboring Punjab and Delhi to share real‑time fire alerts and jointly enforce anti‑burning regulations, aiming for a region‑wide improvement in air quality.