Over 10,000 stubble-burning cases in Punjab; minister makes fervent appeal to farmers

With Punjab recording around 10,175 incidents of stubble-burning till May 28, Health Minister Balbir Singh has made a fervent appeal to the farming community to shun the practice, calling it akin to setting fire to the “heart of Mother Earth”.

The minister's remarks came during a visit to Kath Mathi village, where he expressed anguish over the widespread burning of wheat residue in the fields. While political leaders have largely remained silent on the issue, Singh delivered a strongly-worded, emotional message to the cultivators.

“Seeing smoke rise from our fields fills my heart with pain,” he said. “It is not just the stubble that is burning — it's the life-giving soil, our environment, and the future of our children.”

He emphasised that stubble-burning severely affects wildlife, trees and beneficial insects, while also posing serious health hazards. Vulnerable groups, including children, senior citizens and pregnant women, face a higher risk due to exposure to pollutants.

“The smoke weakens the body’s immunity and worsens illnesses like asthma, Covid and cancer,” Singh warned. He cited medical concerns, noting that prolonged exposure to toxins in the air increases the risk of brain damage, paralysis and heart attacks.

Calling for a shift in mindset and methods, Singh urged farmers to adopt eco-friendly alternatives. “Instead of burning, farmers should plough the residue back into the soil. It enhances soil fertility and safeguards health,” he said.

Highlighting the interconnectedness of environment and human survival, the minister concluded, “We will survive only if we adopt environment-friendly farming practices. Burning fields destroys not just nature, but humanity itself.”

Data show 14,511 farm fires were reported in 2022, followed by 11,355 in 2023, and 11,904 in 2024.