MP defends state’s progress in checking stubble burning

Dr Raj Kumar Chabbewal, Member of Parliament from Punjab, on Sunday strongly defended the state’s progress in reducing stubble burning, responding to recent claims by Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa. Sirsa had alleged that the AAP-led Punjab government was encouraging farmers to burn crop residue, contributing to the pollution spike in Delhi following Diwali.

Speaking to The Tribune today, Chabbewal dismissed these allegations as “baseless” and politically motivated. He pointed to satellite data and reports from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, which show a dramatic decline in stubble burning incidents across Punjab in recent years. The MP highlighted that the state has achieved a ten-fold reduction in farm fires, a success he attributes to collaborative efforts between the government and the farming community.

“The data speaks for itself. Punjab has made monumental progress in curbing stubble burning through a mix of policy initiatives and farmers’ cooperation,” Chabbewal stated. He also underscored the state government’s proactive measures, such as the distribution of over 1.5 lakh crop residue management (CRM) machines at subsidised rates. These machines help farmers manage paddy straw efficiently, thus reducing the need for open-field burning and significantly mitigating environmental and health impacts.

Chabbewal contrasted Punjab’s success with the rising stubble burning incidents in BJP-ruled states like Uttar Pradesh. “This stark contrast highlights the difference between Punjab’s concrete efforts and political rhetoric designed to deflect attention from other states’ records,” he said.

The MP also noted that Punjab's achievements extend beyond environmental protection. Under the AAP government, the state has made notable strides in public welfare, healthcare and education. Programmes like the Mukhyamantri Punjab Health Insurance Scheme have expanded access to quality healthcare for thousands, while free education and modernised schools are improving literacy and learning outcomes.