Milind Deora Presents Committee Report Advocating Enforcement of Rules to Tackle Delhi’s Air Pollution

Synopsis
Milind Deora, Rajya Sabha MP, unveiled the 254th report on air quality management in NCR, suggesting strict enforcement of stubble burning laws and farmer incentives to mitigate air pollution in Delhi. The committee aims for constructive policy adoption by the government to improve environmental conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Deora emphasizes the importance of enforcing stubble burning laws.
- Incentives for compliant farmers could lead to better air quality.
- Constructive recommendations made to the government.
- Commission for Air Quality Management initiated to address air issues.
- Calls for a minimal support price to help farmers transition.
New Delhi, Feb 11 (NationPress) Milind Deora, Rajya Sabha MP and the Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Subordinate Legislation, delivered the 254th report focused on air quality management in the National Capital Region (NCR) during a session in the House on Tuesday.
The Deora-led Committee has put forth numerous recommendations in the 60-page report, emphasizing that stringent enforcement of laws concerning the burning of agricultural residues, along with providing farmers with appropriate compensation, will lead to significant improvements in combating the air pollution that annually plagues the national capital.
The Shiv Sena MP also took to social media to express, "Enforcing stubble burning regulations is crucial to averting Delhi's yearly crisis."
Subsequently, he informed the media that the committee, which includes MPs from various political factions, reviewed the stubble-burning legislation, conducted extensive discussions with multiple stakeholders, and formulated constructive recommendations that he anticipates will be embraced by the government.
"Farmers who adhere to stubble burning protocols should receive incentives, while those who violate them should face penalties," he stated, emphasizing the need for Delhi and its residents to be liberated from the hazardous air quality that has troubled them for years.
The Committee Chairman also proposed introducing a minimal support price for farmers to encourage them to seek alternative methods for disposing of agricultural residues instead of resorting to stubble burning.
Importantly, the Commission for Air Quality Management in the National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Bill, 2021 was introduced in the Lok Sabha on July 30, 2021. This Bill aimed to establish a Commission for enhanced coordination, research, identification, and resolution of air quality issues in Delhi-NCR.
The Commission imposes environmental fines on farmers found guilty of stubble burning at designated rates through a challan.
The Deora-led committee convened numerous meetings with relevant departments and ministries to scrutinize the stubble burning regulations while also discussing ways to enhance their effectiveness and practicality.