Punjab aims to cut farm fires by half this year: Vijay Kumar Janjua

Punjab Chief Secretary Vijay Kumar Janjua on Tuesday assured the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) that the state would bring down fire incidents by 50 per cent by 2022 is taking steps.

In a meeting chaired by the Air Quality Management Commission in the National Capital Region, Chairman M.M. Kutty discussed with senior officials of the state the plan for paddy crop residue management in connection with the upcoming Kharif harvesting season in Punjab.

The Deputy Commissioners briefed the Speaker about the steps taken by the State for crop residue management. Kutty was happy with the steps taken by Punjab to curb stubble burning and congratulated the 30 per cent reduction in fire incidents.

He has instructed all the Deputy Commissioners to prepare an action plan for 2023 in advance. Chief Secretary Janjua highlighted the initiatives taken by the government for the management of stubble, including addressing the issues of ex-situ industries, promoting crop diversification and providing adequate in-situ management machines.

He said that on the instructions of the Chief Minister, the government is working on the use of paddy straw as cattle feed, promotion of cotton crop and sowing of short duration variety of paddy.
He said that the field officers are capable enough to deal with the issue and are working with full zeal and enthusiasm. He further said that the state government would also launch an awareness campaign for farmers about the harmful effects of burning paddy straw, especially on soil fertility.

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