Madhya Pradesh sets record; Sheopur leads with 2,506 stubble fires

Madhya Pradesh reported the highest stubble burning cases in the country this year, with 14,493 incidents as of November 24, surpassing Punjab and Haryana. This is a rise compared to the 13,793 cases in 2020, a record grain production year. The figures are expected to rise further by the end of November.

Punjab and Haryana, criticized for stubble burning, reported 10,682 and 1,315 cases respectively during the same period.

Sheopur Leads in Stubble Burning

Sheopur has recorded the highest number of incidents among Madhya Pradesh districts with 2,506 cases, followed by Jabalpur with 1,952 and Narmadapuram with 1,617. These districts significantly contribute to environmental pollution from stubble burning.

Stubble-burning cases are negligible in the state’s tribal districts. Alirajpur and Dindori reported zero incidents; Shahdol recorded one case, followed by two in Dindori, three in Ratlam, and 14 each in Sidhi and Singrauli. Experts attribute this trend to traditional farming practices.

Babulal Dahiya, a Satna farmer who has preserved over 400 traditional seed varieties, explains the tribal community's sustainable practices. "In tribal areas, paddy straw isn't burned. It's used as animal feed, mortar for house construction, and organic manure," he said. In contrast, larger farmers burn straw due to a labour shortage for manual management.

The rising stubble burning cases in Madhya Pradesh are concerning as they contribute to air pollution. Experts suggest promoting labor availability and mechanized alternatives for straw management, along with awareness campaigns, to curb the trend.

The state’s record-breaking grain production this year has increased stubble generation, complicating agricultural residue management. The focus now shifts to implementing sustainable farming practices and incentivizing farmers to adopt eco-friendly methods.

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