Stubble challenge: Incentivising farmers is a viable option

THE onset of paddy procurement in Punjab has drawn the attention of various stakeholders to a seasonal problem — stubble burning. The Supreme Court has asked the state government to take a call on arresting some erring farmers for indulging in this practice, which is a key contributor to air pollution in October-November every year. The court has acknowledged that “farmers are special and we are eating because of them”, but it has urged the state to invoke penal provisions to send a stern message about safeguarding the environment. Punjab and Haryana, both food-bowl states, have occasionally put farmers behind bars for setting stubble ablaze, but this drastic step has not proved to be an effective deterrent.

Arrests and hefty penalties over the years have incurred the wrath of the region’s farming community, which has not shied away from upping the ante against the Central and state governments. Criminal prosecution of farmers is regarded as a politically risky move as they constitute an influential vote bank, particularly in Punjab. With the paddy crop having suffered extensive damage during the recent floods in the border state, the authorities are likely to play it safe, avoiding punitive action that can worsen the farmers’ ordeal.

It is imperative to prioritise collaboration over confrontation. The carrot should work better than the stick. The key is to encourage and empower farmers to manage stubble, which can be used productively as biofuel by industries. The push for biomass utilisation in energy production can make a difference on the ground. The capital subsidy to incentivise industries shifting to stubble-based boilers is a laudable initiative. Eco-friendly steps that ensure environmental protection as well as the wellbeing of farmers are a must to prevent the great winter choke.