In recent years, the issue of paddy straw burning has become a growing concern for farmers, environmentalists, and health experts. Paddy straw burning is a traditional practice followed by farmers in the rice belt states of India, where they burn the crop residue left after harvesting the crop. However, it leads to severe air pollution, smog, and health problems for the residents of the area.
To overcome this issue, various measures have been proposed to encourage farmers to adopt alternative methods of crop residue management. These methods include turning the straw into compost, using it as animal feed, or selling it as raw material for biomass power plants. But, these solutions are not always feasible for small and marginal farmers who lack the resources to invest in expensive machinery or technology.
Moreover, the government has also come up with several schemes to incentivize farmers who do not burn paddy straw. The most recent scheme is a financial assistance scheme announced by the Punjab government called the “Happy Seeder Scheme.” Under this scheme, farmers who do not burn paddy straw and opt for the “Happy Seeder,” a machine that sows wheat directly into the unploughed rice fields, will be eligible for a financial assistance of Rs. 5000 per acre.
The Happy Seeder scheme has received a positive response from the farmers, with thousands of farmers opting for the scheme across the state. This scheme has not only helped in reducing air pollution but also increased soil health and fertility by improving soil structure and organic matter content.
In addition to the government schemes, several non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and private initiatives have also come forward to support farmers who do not burn paddy straw. They provide financial assistance, training, and support to farmers to adopt alternative methods of crop residue management.
Conclusion
The issue of paddy straw burning is a complex problem that needs to be addressed through a multi-pronged approach. Financial assistance schemes like Happy Seeder, along with other initiatives by NGOs and private players, can encourage farmers to adopt alternative methods of crop residue management. As responsible citizens, it is our duty to support these initiatives and contribute to building a sustainable and healthier future for our farmers and our environment.