Sangrur, September 21: Sangrur Deputy Commissioner Rahul Chaba has directed sub-divisional magistrates (SDMs) to stay in direct touch with farmers in their areas to promote the use of stubble management machinery and discourage stubble burning. He was speaking at a review meeting on paddy stubble management with officials of various departments at the District Administrative Complex.
Chaba stressed that farmers must refrain from burning crop residue “under any circumstances” and instead adopt in-situ and ex-situ techniques to manage paddy stubble. “By incorporating stubble into the soil, farmers can improve soil fertility while also protecting the environment, especially the health of children and the elderly,” he said.
The DC noted that the number of stubble management machines had increased this year, along with a rise in industries engaged in stubble disposal. “With expanded machinery and industry support, incidents of stubble burning can be reduced to zero this year,” he added.
Officials from agriculture and allied departments have been tasked with creating awareness among farmers and ensuring timely availability of machinery. Chaba instructed SDMs and other officers to visit fields in their respective subdivisions, interact with farmers and sensitise them about stubble management.
He appealed to farmers to contribute to environmental protection by avoiding stubble burning and adopting sustainable disposal practices.
