As the autumn season approaches, the farmers in the northern states of India face a severe problem of air pollution caused due to the burning of paddy straw in their fields. The resulting smoke from the burnt straw leads to a spike in PM2.5 levels in the air, which poses a significant threat to the health of people living in these areas.
However, there is a solution to this problem that can help farmers avoid burning paddy straw while also providing them with financial assistance. The central government and various states have launched schemes to encourage farmers to adopt alternative practices such as using straw for animal feed, fertilisers, and paper manufacturing, among other things.
Under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojna, farmers can avail a subsidy of up to 80% on insurance premiums if they do not burn crop residue in their fields. Similarly, the Haryana government has launched a new scheme for providing Rs. 100 per quintal of agricultural residue to farmers who do not burn paddy straw in the state. The financial assistance is aimed at encouraging farmers to use the straw for composting, biomass generation, and other purposes.
Furthermore, the Punjab government has introduced a scheme where they provide farmers with happy seeders and other agricultural equipment to help them manage crop residue effectively. Under this initiative, the government is also providing farmers with a subsidy of up to 50% on the purchase of such equipment.
Apart from government schemes, private companies and organisations are also offering financial assistance to farmers who refrain from burning crop residue. Companies such as Indian Oil Corporation and ITC Limited are exploring the use of crop residue as a source of energy and raw material for their operations, and they are willing to purchase the straw from farmers.
In conclusion, financial help for farmers who do not burn paddy straw is an essential step towards reducing air pollution and improving the socio-economic conditions of farmers. By promoting alternative uses of crop residue and providing financial assistance, farmers can adopt sustainable practices that benefit both themselves and the environment. It is time for all stakeholders to come together and take significant steps in this direction.