Punjab News: To combat the issue of stubble burning and enhance effective crop residue management, the Punjab Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department is set to distribute more than 24,000 crop residue management (CRM) machines, including 5,000 surface seeders, to farmers at subsidized rates during the upcoming harvesting season.
Positive Response from Farmers:
Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian shared that the department received an encouraging response from farmers, with 1,58,394 applications submitted to avail subsidies on CRM machinery. The selection process for beneficiaries was conducted transparently through an online portal, and sanction letters have already been issued to those selected.
Successful Reduction in Stubble Burning:
Highlighting the positive impact of CRM machines, the Agriculture Minister noted that last year, the state achieved a 30 percent reduction in stubble burning incidents through their use. To further combat crop residue burning, a substantial budget of Rs 350 crore has been allocated for the current year.
Streamlined Subsidy Application Process:
The subsidy application process was facilitated through an online portal to ensure transparency and ease of access for farmers looking to benefit from these subsidies.
Custom-Hiring Centers for Small and Marginal Farmers:
In addition to subsidizing CRM machines, the Agriculture Department is actively working to establish custom-hiring centers at every block. These centers will provide small and marginal farmers with access to CRM machinery, further promoting responsible and sustainable crop residue management practices.
This concerted effort by the Punjab government reflects a commitment to addressing the environmental and agricultural challenges posed by stubble burning while supporting the farming community with essential resources and subsidies.
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