Farmers to Get Manure in Exchange for Stubble: A Step Towards Cleaner Farming

Key Highlights

• Farmers exchange two stubble trolleys for one manure trolley.
• Reduces pollution from stubble burning.
• Promotes organic farming and improves soil fertility.
• Haryana offers ₹1,000 per acre incentive for residue management.
• State governments provide subsidies for stubble management machines.

Efforts to stop stubble burning are gaining momentum across states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. In a unique initiative, farmers in Auraiya district, Uttar Pradesh, can now exchange crop stubble for high-quality cow dung manure. This scheme, launched by the Auraiya District Collector, aims to manage stubble sustainably while promoting organic farming.

Also Read: Haryana Government Offers Incentives and Subsidies for Farmers to Prevent Stubble Burning

How the Scheme Works

Farmers can give two paddy straw (stubble) trolleys to cow shelters in exchange for one trolley of cow dung manure. This initiative ensures that stubble is properly managed without burning, reducing pollution. The compost received will also help farmers improve soil fertility, leading to better crop yields.

To make the process smoother, cow shelter managers currently collect the straw from fields. However, farmers suggest providing JCB machines and trolleys to ease transportation and avoid additional costs.

Why This Initiative Was Launched

Stubble burning has long been a serious issue in North India, causing air pollution and environmental harm. Farmers who burn crop residue often face fines and restrictions, such as being unable to sell crops at minimum support prices (MSP).

This scheme encourages farmers to adopt eco-friendly practices without fear of penalties. It also aligns with the government’s larger goal of promoting organic farming and reducing pollution.

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Other Efforts by State Governments

States like Haryana and Punjab are also taking steps to curb stubble burning:

• Subsidies on Equipment: Farmers are being provided financial aid to buy machines for in-situ and ex-situ stubble management.
• Incentives: Haryana’s "Parali Protsahan Yojana" offers ₹1,000 per acre to farmers who manage crop residue without burning.
• Awareness Campaigns: Farmers are being educated on sustainable practices and the benefits of stubble management.

Impact on Farmers

Farmers have welcomed these initiatives as they provide solutions to a long-standing problem. By exchanging stubble for manure, they not only avoid penalties but also gain valuable fertilizer, reducing dependency on chemical alternatives.

This sustainable approach is a win-win for farmers and the environment. With such programs, the harmful practice of stubble burning could soon become a thing of the past.

Also Read: PM Kisan Yojana: Special Campaign Launched to Help Left-Out Farmers Join and Update Documents

CMV360 Says

The stubble-for-manure initiative offers a practical solution to stubble burning, benefiting farmers and the environment. By reducing pollution and promoting organic farming, it addresses key challenges in agriculture. With government support and innovative schemes like this, sustainable farming practices are becoming more accessible, ensuring better yields and a healthier ecosystem.