Hoshiarpur, 20 Aug 2025 : Deputy Commissioner Ashika Jain today held a meeting with officials of various departments to review preparations to prevent stubble burning incidents in the district and to assess its scientific management.
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on the availability of stubble management machinery at the block level, the subsidized machines provided to farmers so far, their effective utilization, and the plans for managing stubble consumption through industrial units.
The Deputy Commissioner informed that a total of 3,063 stubble management machines have already been made available to farmers in the district on subsidy, while farmers have themselves purchased 156 machines during the current year. These include in-situ machines (for managing stubble directly in the fields) and ex-situ baler machines (for bundling stubble to be consumed by industrial units).
She instructed officials to intensify IEC (Information, Education, Communication) activities to spread maximum awareness among farmers regarding stubble management. Under this, publicity vans, school-level competitions, and agricultural exhibitions will be organized.
The Deputy Commissioner also appealed to farmers to completely give up the practice of stubble burning and adopt scientific management using the resources available. She added that farmers can directly contact the Agriculture Department for technical guidance and necessary assistance.
In addition, she directed all Sub-Divisional Magistrates to monitor stubble management plans at their respective levels and take concrete measures for paddy stubble management in the upcoming season. The DC stated that Nodal Officers and Cluster Officers are being appointed to prevent stubble burning incidents in the district.
She further directed all departments to discharge their responsibilities in stubble management with full dedication and accountability. On this occasion, ADC (Development) Nikas Kumar, along with officials from various departments, was also present.
Summary:
The Deputy Commissioner chaired a review meeting on stubble management, focusing on preventive steps, farmer awareness, and coordinated efforts to reduce pollution and promote sustainable farming practices.