Date : 21/11/2023

Relevance:GS Paper3- Environment

Keywords: Biofuel production, Palletisation, DBT, Bio CNG, Circular Economy, direct seeding of rice (DSR) Technique

Context-

Stubble burning, a prevalent practice in agriculture, has escalated over the decades, posing significant environmental and health challenges. Here, we look into the root causes of stubble burning, and its widespread consequences, and propose a multifaceted plan aimed at curbing this detrimental agricultural practice.

What is Stubble Burning?

• Stubble burning, prevalent in October and November across North West India, particularly in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, involves setting on fire the straw stubble left after harvesting grains like paddy and wheat.
• This method clears fields for wheat sowing from late September to November, aligning with the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon.
• This practice is essential in areas using combined harvesting, where crop residue is left behind.