Is Stubble Burning Rising Alarmingly in MP? Farmers Risk Losing Govt Benefits and MSP
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Synopsis
Madhya Pradesh faces a severe challenge with rising stubble burning incidents. The government announces a halt to crucial benefits for farmers engaging in this practice. With alarming statistics and efforts to combat this issue, the urgency for sustainable farming practices has never been more critical.
Key Takeaways
- Farmers in Madhya Pradesh face loss of government benefits for stubble burning.
- Current stubble burning incidents in MP are alarmingly high.
- Efforts are underway to educate farmers about environmental conservation.
- Government emphasizes the importance of sustainable farming practices.
- There is a significant financial impact on farmers involved in stubble burning.
Bhopal, April 29 (NationPress) In a decisive action, the Madhya Pradesh cabinet has declared that farmers who engage in the practice of burning wheat or other crop residues in their fields will no longer receive benefits under the 'Kisan Samman Nidhi' scheme or the procurement of agricultural goods at minimum support prices.
State Urban Development Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya explained the government's policy, stating that while they aim to avoid legal repercussions for farmers, the need for environmental protection is paramount.
He remarked, "Farmers who continue to burn stubble will not see their produce procured nor will they receive the annual 'Kisan Samman Nidhi' payment."
The minister also mentioned that they might forfeit additional benefits as well.
Under the 'PM Kisan Samman Nidhi' scheme, farmers currently get Rs 6,000 each year in three equal installments of Rs 2,000, and wheat is bought at Rs 2,600 per quintal, which includes a bonus of Rs 175 per quintal for the current Rabi season.
Despite strict regulations, Madhya Pradesh has become the state with the highest rates of stubble burning (locally referred to as Parali), even exceeding Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.
Satellite data from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Consortium for Research on Agroecosystem Monitoring and Modelling from Space (ICAR-CREAMS) indicates that as of April 28, the state has reported 28,705 stubble burning incidents, leading to 281,171 Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) instances across 50 districts.
CREAMS utilizes satellite technology to monitor stubble burning across the country, highlighting the ongoing severity of the issue.
For instance, from April 1 to April 17, Madhya Pradesh recorded an alarming 13,411 incidents, while Punjab only had 13. As of April 28, Punjab reported just 444 fire incidents across 23 districts, in stark contrast to Madhya Pradesh's troubling figures.
Efforts to combat this issue have intensified statewide, with written appeals and video campaigns encouraging farmers to cease post-harvest stubble burning. Yet, in 2024 alone, Madhya Pradesh recorded 11,382 incidents of this detrimental practice.
In Madhya Pradesh, Sheopur topped the list with 2,508 cases, while Punjab's Sangrur followed with 1,725.
Recent satellite data revealed 176,237 fire incidents related to stubble burning across 177 districts in five major wheat-producing states, highlighting the scale of this environmental crisis and the urgent need for action.
Point of View
The situation in Madhya Pradesh regarding stubble burning is critical. As we balance agricultural practices with environmental sustainability, it’s essential to recognize the government's role in guiding farmers towards more eco-friendly methods. The challenge remains to preserve farmers' livelihoods while protecting our environment.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What benefits will farmers lose if they burn stubble?
Farmers who burn stubble will lose access to the 'Kisan Samman Nidhi' scheme and minimum support prices for their produce.
How much financial support do farmers receive under the PM Kisan scheme?
Farmers receive Rs 6,000 annually, distributed in three equal installments of Rs 2,000.
Which state has the highest stubble burning incidents?
Madhya Pradesh has reported the highest number of stubble burning incidents, surpassing Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.
What is the government's approach to legal penalties for farmers?
While the government aims to avoid legal penalties for farmers, they emphasize the necessity of environmental conservation.
What efforts are being made to curb stubble burning?
The state government is launching campaigns and appeals to educate farmers about the harmful effects of stubble burning and to encourage sustainable practices.
