Stubble burning sparks health, soil problems: Nawanshahr DC

An ongoing awareness campaign is actively educating farmers in Nawanshahr about sustainable methods for managing paddy stubble. Teams from various departments are working on the ground to familiarise farmers with modern technologies that support in-situ stubble management, thereby discouraging the practice of burning.

Deputy Commissioner Ankurjeet Singh highlighted the extensive efforts being made to promote stubble conservation in the district. He noted that over 120 baler machines have already been distributed on subsidy this year, with 294 provided during 2024–25. For the current year 2025–26, approximately 2,600 machines have been made available to farmers for effective stubble handling.

Emphasising the harmful effects of stubble burning, Singh said the practice not only pollutes the environment but also reduces soil fertility. He warned that the toxic smoke poses serious health risks, particularly to newborns, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues. He urged farmers to avoid burning crop residue and instead use the machinery provided to manage it in an environmentally friendly manner.

Chief Agriculture Officer Dr Rakesh Kumar Sharma added that several initiatives are being undertaken to increase awareness, including training camps, mobile van campaigns, wall paintings, and school competitions. He assured that adequate machinery is available in the district, making sustainable stubble management both practical and efficient.

Dr Sharma appealed to all farmers to make full use of the available machines. Those without equipment can contact their village cooperative societies or the respective Block Agriculture Officers for rentals. He also shared block-level contact details to facilitate access to machinery.