Punjab and Haryana Farmers Demand Solutions for Stubble Burning Issues
In Bathinda, Punjab, farmers are calling on the government to address the issue of stubble burning, which they claim is a necessity due to lack of alternatives. Ram Singh, a local farmer, expressed frustration over the lack of government solutions and the blame placed on farmers for pollution. He questioned the role of factories and industries in contributing to pollution.
In Ambala, Haryana, farmer leader Suresh Koth criticized the government’s strict measures against stubble burning, which include penalties and FIRs. Koth argued that industries are the main polluters and urged the government to provide stubble management machines to prevent burning. He also highlighted issues with paddy purchase deductions due to moisture content and appointed Sukhwinder Singh Jalbeda as a district head to advocate for farmers’ rights.
The Haryana government has ordered FIRs against farmers burning crop residue and restricted their market access through the e-Kharid portal. Koth warned that such measures could lead to unrest among farmers, who refuse to pay penalties and demand fair treatment.
Doubts Revealed
Punjab and Haryana -: Punjab and Haryana are two states in northern India. They are known for their agricultural activities, especially growing crops like wheat and rice.
Stubble Burning -: Stubble burning is the practice of setting fire to the leftover crop residue in fields after harvesting. Farmers do this to quickly clear the field for the next crop, but it causes air pollution.
Ram Singh -: Ram Singh is a farmer from Bathinda, a city in Punjab. He is speaking out about the challenges farmers face and how they are being blamed for pollution.
Suresh Koth -: Suresh Koth is a farmer from Ambala, a city in Haryana. He is concerned about the penalties for stubble burning and is asking for better solutions like machines to manage crop residue.
Stubble Management Machines -: These are machines that help farmers manage the leftover crop residue without burning it. They can turn the stubble into useful materials or prepare the field for the next crop.
Penalties and Market Restrictions -: Penalties are fines or punishments given to farmers who burn stubble. Market restrictions mean that farmers might face difficulties in selling their crops if they are caught burning stubble.