As Punjab’s lush fields transform from harvest to preparation for the upcoming planting season, the state grapples with the persistent environmental challenge of stubble burning. In a groundbreaking initiative, Punjab Police are taking decisive action to mitigate this yearly crisis by actively engaging with farmers, educating them on sustainable practices, and even virtually dousing flames in the fields. From Moga to Batala, and Ferozepur to Faridkot, police are stepping beyond traditional roles, demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship that transcends law enforcement.
In Batala, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Suhail Qasim Mir leads a comprehensive campaign that combines education, community outreach, and on-the-ground intervention. Recognizing the importance of collaboration, the Batala Police have forged strong partnerships with local farmers and community leaders to combat the practice of stubble burning. This initiative has yielded significant results; between September 21 and October 31, 2024, only 135 instances of stubble burning were recorded in the joint areas of Gurdaspur and Batala — a dramatic decline from the 818 incidents logged in 2022.
The proactive approach of the Batala Police is evident in their dual focus on enforcement and education. They have filed 44 FIRs and levied fines amounting to Rs 1.05 lakhs against offenders, but their efforts extend far beyond punitive measures. Officers have been seen actively extinguishing fires, showcasing their hands-on commitment to preserving the environment. “Our objective is to educate and inform,” said SSP Mir. “The decrease in stubble burning incidents reflects a positive response from the farming community, who are increasingly aware of the environmental consequences of their actions,” he added.
Throughout the state, similar initiatives are being mirrored in other districts. Faridkot Police are conducting field-based awareness sessions, directly engaging with farmers about the adverse effects of stubble burning on both health and the environment. “These meetings are vital for cultivating a sense of responsibility among our farmers,” explained a Faridkot Police spokesperson. “We are encouraging sustainable practices that benefit our communities and the ecosystem alike.”
In Fazilka, police have reached out to farmers in grain markets, ensuring that crucial information is readily accessible. This proactive outreach aimed at instilling a sense of urgency regarding the need for change and to foster dialogue around alternative methods of crop residue management.
As stubble fires ignite across the countryside, the visible presence of police personnel acts as both a deterrent and a source of reassurance for the community. To further enhance their efforts, the formation of Field Surveillance Teams (FSTs) has been instrumental in monitoring high-risk areas and swiftly responding to incidents. These teams are not only identifying fire-prone locations but also promoting a culture of collective responsibility.
The momentum is shifting in Punjab, where the fight against stubble burning is increasingly viewed as a shared endeavor. SSP Mir’s vision for Batala extended beyond immediate enforcement; he aimed at sustaining ongoing dialogues with farmers and Kisan Unions to explore viable alternatives to burning, such as modern technology and eco-friendly methods of managing crop residue.
As this campaign unfolds, the emphasis remains clear: Punjab Police are not merely enforcers but partners in fostering a sustainable agricultural future. “The progress we are witnessing is just the beginning,” SSP Mir remarked, adding, “With the continued support of our farmers and community leaders, we can protect our agricultural heritage while ensuring a healthier environment for future generations.”
Punjab’s Farm Fires Cross 4k
Punjab has crossed the 4,000-mark in farm fire incidents, with 216 new cases reported on Sunday alone, according to the Punjab Remote Sensing Centre. This brings the total number of farm fires recorded from September 15 to November 3, this year, to 4,132. While significantly lower than the 12,813 cases reported during the same period in 2023, the persistent stubble burning remains a pressing issue, especially for pollution in neighbouring Delhi.
The ongoing paddy harvest has driven a rise in stubble-burning cases as farmers seek rapid field clearance to sow wheat. The highest number of cases for this season was recorded on November 1 — a day after Diwali celebrations — with 587 incidents.
Out of the total 351 residue-burning incidents detected across six states on Sunday, Punjab reported the highest number at 216, signaling a continuing challenge for authorities aiming to reduce air pollution from agricultural fires. In particular, Sangrur emerged as the district with the highest number of recent cases, logging 59 incidents on Sunday alone. In terms of cumulative numbers, Amritsar leads with 600 cases this season, followed by Tarn Taran with 563 and Sangrur with 552.
Despite these surges, Punjab has made strides in reducing overall farm fire incidents, registering a 26 percent drop from the previous year’s numbers. The government has been ramping up efforts to educate farmers on alternative residue management practices and has increased subsidies for stubble management equipment. However, the gap between awareness and adoption remains substantial.
Environmental experts warn that without a comprehensive shift in agricultural practices, stubble burning will continue to contribute to seasonal pollution spikes in northern India. The state government’s commitment to finding long-term solutions is being tested as it navigates the balance between supporting farmers and safeguarding air quality.
