Chandigarh,3 Oct 2025: As North India braces for smog after the paddy harvest, the Punjab Government has launched its Action Plan-2025, announcing the complete eradication of the age-old practice of stubble burning. Led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, this initiative will not only curb pollution but also open new economic opportunities for farmers. A fresh MoU with Deloitte is paving the way to turn stubble from smoke into “Green Gold.” Last year’s pilot project in 17 villages of Patiala showed the power of this model by reducing fire incidents by more than 80%, and now this revolution is ready to spread across Punjab.
This MoU is more than just technical support—it is a mission to empower farmers. The government’s ₹500 crore Action Plan-2025 promises to transform stubble into bio-energy, organic manure, and electricity, thereby increasing farmers’ incomes. With the support of ₹150 crore from the central government, more than 15,000 machines such as Super Seeders and Balers are being made available at subsidized rates. Imagine: the stubble that once turned into smoke will now bring money into farmers’ bank accounts while also preserving soil fertility!
Last year’s success—where stubble burning incidents dropped by 80% (from 36,551 to 10,479)—adds further strength to this plan. The government has targeted 4,367 new subsidized machines and strengthening 1,500 Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs). Notably, 7.06 million tonnes of stubble will be processed ex-situ into power plants, biogas units, and fuel. With Deloitte’s support, biomass power projects and biogas plants will be set up, where farmers can sell stubble for a good price. Estimates suggest that proper utilization of 19 million tonnes of stubble could provide lakhs of farmers with significant annual additional income.
Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian said, “Through village-level meetings and household awareness campaigns, several Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities will be conducted. Inspiring videos and digital awareness vans with the mascot ‘Unnat Singh’ will visit different villages to motivate farmers. Along with this, items such as T-shirts, calendars, cups, and tote bags with innovative slogans will also be distributed.” He added, “For easy booking and scheduling of agricultural equipment, a new mobile application ‘Krishi Yantra Sathi (KYS)’ is being launched.” The government will spread awareness through camps in 3,333 villages and 296 block-level programs.
Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh appreciated Deloitte’s initiative, saying, “Smoke from stubble burning severely impacts air quality, increasing respiratory and other health problems among citizens. The success in Patiala presents a practical model for protecting both the environment and public health.” He added, “Our partnership with Deloitte is a crucial step toward building a greener, healthier, and more prosperous Punjab. By implementing these impactful strategies across the state, we are determined to replicate Patiala’s success and provide sustainable solutions for crop residue management, benefiting farmers and safeguarding public health.” According to the Punjab Pollution Control Board, between September 15 and 27, 2025, only 82 fire incidents were recorded—16% fewer than last year.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said, “Punjab’s farmers are our pride. We see stubble not as a problem but as an opportunity. This Action Plan-2025 will not only clean Punjab’s air but also empower every farmer economically.” The plan aims to manage 20.5 million tonnes of stubble through both in-situ and ex-situ methods, including promoting Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR) on five lakh acres.
Summary :
Punjab’s Mann Government introduces Action Plan 2025, turning crop residue into ‘Green Gold,’ promoting zero burning, doubling farmer income, and supporting sustainable smart farming practices statewide.