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Karnal, October 16 (IANS) Farmers in Haryana’s Karnal are gradually adopting new stubble management techniques. This marks a significant change in the harmful practice of burning crop residues after harvest.
This change is a big relief for the environment and public health. Earlier, stubble burning during the crop season was notorious for causing severe air pollution and dense smog.
This year, the difference is noticeable. Locals say there have been no incidents of stubble burning or smoke generation after harvest due to the adoption of modern crop residue management practices by local farmers. This not only helps the environment, but it also increases soil fertility, which the farming community is quite excited about.
Raj Kumar Maratha, a farmer from Jhanjhari village in Karnal, said, “Earlier farmers used to burn stubble out of compulsion, but now we are aware of its harmful effects. We have to save the future generations.”
Raj Kumar Maratha has successfully managed stubble in his 10-acre farm using advanced combine harvesters equipped with SMS technology. This machine cuts the paddy stalk finely, which is then mixed with the soil with the help of a cultivator, making the field immediately ready for the next crop.
“This technology is very effective and farmer-friendly,” said Raj Kumar. “Though it costs about Rs 400 extra, it eliminates the problem of stubble, does not harm the environment and strengthens soil fertility. The stubble decomposes in the soil and acts as a natural fertilizer, thereby increasing crop yields.”
Another local farmer, Sunil Kumar, also echoed this positive outlook, and encouraged fellow farmers to stay away from stubble burning and adopt residue management techniques, which benefits both their land and health.
Dr. Wazir Singh, Deputy Director of Agriculture in Karnal, highlighted the ongoing efforts of the government to promote stubble management. According to him, about 60 per cent of paddy harvest has been completed in the district, and about 40 per cent of farmers have adopted residue management practices.
“The agriculture department is running several awareness programs at the district and block levels to encourage farmers to manage stubble instead of burning it,” Dr Singh said.
“More than 400 teams have been formed by the district administration to educate farmers on this issue. A subsidy of 50 per cent is provided on farm machinery to support residue management.”
Farmers who refrain from burning stubble are also eligible for a subsidy of Rs 1200 per acre as incentive. Dr Singh said two primary methods of stubble management are being promoted:
In-situ management: Incorporating stubble directly into fields, enriching soil nutrients.
Ex-situ management: Removal of stubble from fields and its external management.
Farmers are encouraged to use SMS-enabled combine harvesters for better efficiency during paddy harvest.
–IANS
BRT/and