Malerkotla, November 4:
With the objective of encouraging farmers to manage crop residue (stubble) scientifically instead of burning it and raising awareness about environmental protection, the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare organized a special awareness campaign through street plays at grain markets.
Under the directions of Deputy Commissioner Viraj S. Tirke and the leadership of Chief Agriculture Officer Dr. Harbans Singh Sidhu, a team from Noor Arts, Bathinda, staged street plays at the grain markets of villages Bhurthala Mander and Khanpur to educate farmers about the benefits of proper crop residue management.
Sharing details about the campaign, Dr. Harbans Singh Sidhu said that crop residue is not a burden for farmers but a valuable natural resource that helps improve soil health. He explained that burning crop residue not only causes environmental pollution but also adversely affects beneficial microorganisms and essential nutrients present in the soil.
He further stated that through these street plays, farmers were informed about various methods of crop residue management, including making bales of straw and incorporating crop residue directly into the soil. Special emphasis was laid on incorporating crop residue into the fields, as it increases the availability of organic matter and nutrients, thereby improving soil fertility and benefiting the yield of the subsequent crop.
He also advised farmers to use fertilizers in a balanced manner based on soil testing reports.
The street plays conveyed the message that preventing crop residue burning today is an important step towards preserving clean air and fertile land for future generations.
On this occasion, Agriculture Development Officer Satinder Kaur, ADO Manveer Singh, and ATM officials were also present.