The Delhi government will opt for spraying a bio-decomposer in paddy fields to control the stubble burning and reduce air pollution during winter. Delhi government announced that it would spray Pusa bio-decomposer free of cost over 5,000 acres of paddy fields in the city as this would help in controlling stubble burning and air pollution during winter.
What is Stubble Burning?
- Stubble Burning is the practice of intentionally setting fire to the straw stubble that remains after grains, such as rice and wheat, have been harvested.
- The technique was widespread until the 1990s, when governments increasingly restricted its use.
- Stubble Burning in northern India has long been a major cause of air pollution, but efforts to stop it fail every year.
- Every year, when winter sets in, Delhi’s air pollution peaks with the air quality index (AQI) often plunging to the ‘severe’ and ‘hazardous’ categories.
Impact of Stubble Burning
- Stubble burning in northern India has long been a major cause of air pollution.
- The pollution makes people more vulnerable to infection and slows their recovery post infection.
- Burning husk on the ground destroys the nutrients in the soil, making it less fertile.
- Heat generated by stubble burning penetrates into the soil, leading to the loss of moisture and useful microbes.
Alternatives to Stubble Burning
Turbo Happy Seeder: Imagine a cool machine that not only clears out old crop leftovers but also plants new seeds in the same spot. Plus, it recycles the old stuff into mulch for the soil. How awesome is that?
Pusa Bio-decomposer: Scientists have come up with this super cool thing that turns leftover crops into useful manure in just 15-20 days. It’s like a speedy makeover for the fields!
In-situ Treatment: Farmers get nifty equipment to mix leftover crop bits right back into the soil. No need for burning, and it’s like giving the earth a natural makeover.
Ex-situ Treatment: Some companies are already on it, collecting leftover crop stuff for their own use. But hey, we need more folks jumping on this bandwagon.
Smart Crop Choices: Let’s get creative with what we plant. Instead of just rice, let’s grow more fruits and veggies. The government can pitch in with cool policies and cash incentives to make it happen.
Way Ahead
Farmers with small landholdings face challenges in embracing in-situ strategies, such as incorporating straw into the soil instead of burning it. Simply imposing fines isn’t effective given our socio-economic conditions. We should explore alternative solutions to encourage and support these farmers in adopting more sustainable practices.
Read Also: Burachapori Wildlife Sanctuary
