How has the Punjab government achieved a four-fold reduction in farm fire cases?
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Synopsis
The Punjab government has made impressive strides in reducing farm fire incidents, achieving a four-fold drop compared to previous years. This article explores the collaborative efforts of civil authorities and police in combating stubble burning, highlighting public awareness initiatives and strict legal actions that are reshaping agricultural practices.
Key Takeaways
- Four-fold reduction in farm fire cases this year.
- Collaboration between civil administration and police.
- Over 2,300 public awareness meetings held.
- Formation of the Parali Protection Force.
- Strict legal actions against offenders.
Chandigarh, Oct 22 (NationPress) The Punjab government stated on Wednesday that the relentless efforts by civil administration and police to combat stubble burning have resulted in remarkable outcomes, showcasing a nearly four-fold decrease in farm fire incidents this year when compared to the same timeframe over the last two years.
As per the official records compiled from September 15 to October 21, the state has reported only 415 cases of farm fires in 2025.
"This signifies a dramatic drop from the 1,510 incidents recorded in 2024 and 1,764 incidents in 2023 during the same crucial period," the government disclosed in a statement.
In compliance with the Supreme Court's directives and the Commission for Air Quality Management's (CAQM) mandate to reduce stubble burning to zero, Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav and Special DGP for Law and Order, Arpit Shukla, have been overseeing actions against stubble burning.
The DGP has been holding daily meetings with senior officials, Range Officers, CPs, SSPs, and Station House Officers (SHOs) to personally monitor stubble burning cases, the statement mentioned.
Special DGP Shukla emphasized that police teams, in collaboration with civil administration, have been actively working on the ground to tackle the stubble burning issue.
He stated that senior officials have been conducting coordinated visits to villages identified as hotspots for stubble burning and have been organizing public awareness meetings with various farmer and kisan unions at both district and sub-divisional levels.
In recent days, Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendents of Police conducted 251 joint tours, while Subdivisional Magistrates and Deputy Superintendents of Police engaged in 90 joint tours, resulting in 2,381 public awareness meetings.
A Parali Protection Force has also been established at the police station level, tasked with monitoring and educating farmers about the negative impacts of burning crop residue.
The Special DGP stated that legal actions are being initiated against individuals caught burning stubble. To date, 415 farm fires were identified by the Punjab Remote Sensing Centre (PSRC), with joint teams dispatched for on-site inspections. He noted that police teams have registered first information reports (FIRs) in 172 cases and imposed penalties in 189 cases.
Furthermore, red entries have been made in the revenue records of 165 farmers, he added.
Point of View
The Punjab government's approach to reducing stubble burning through collaboration and public engagement is commendable. This initiative showcases a strong commitment to environmental sustainability while addressing farmers' concerns, ultimately benefiting both agriculture and air quality across the region.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of farm fires in Punjab?
As of October 21, 2025, Punjab has recorded only 415 farm fire cases, a significant reduction from 1,510 in 2024 and 1,764 in 2023.
What measures has the Punjab government taken to reduce stubble burning?
The government has implemented measures including public awareness campaigns, joint tours by officials, and the formation of the Parali Protection Force to monitor and educate farmers.
Are there any legal consequences for burning stubble in Punjab?
Yes, legal actions are being taken against those found burning stubble, with FIRs registered in 172 cases and penalties imposed in 189 cases.
How are officials monitoring stubble burning incidents?
The Director General of Police and Special DGP are actively monitoring incidents by holding meetings with senior officers and conducting joint inspections.
What is the goal of the Punjab government regarding stubble burning?
The ultimate aim is to reduce stubble burning cases to zero, as mandated by the Supreme Court and the Commission for Air Quality Management.
