Modi Gov Doubles Stubble Burning Penalties for Neigbouring States; Check the New Rates

The fines for stubble burning have been increased by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change in response to the Supreme Court's criticism of the "toothless" sanctions under the Environment Protection Act (EPA) of 1986. 

In addition to addressing the deteriorating air quality in Delhi and the surrounding areas, this action attempts to reduce stubble burning.

Increased Penalty Rates for Stubble Burning

The central government has nearly doubled the fines for stubble burning for farmers in states near the national capital.

Check the new rates in the table given below:

Which States Farmers Come Under the Penalty?

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) Act of 2021 enforces penalties to control pollution across Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and parts of the NCR in Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. These regulations aim to improve air quality by setting strict rules and consequences for violations in these regions.

How will the Fine be Collected?

Fines collected through challans must be paid within 30 days. If not paid, an authorized officer will recover the unpaid amount as a land revenue arrear. For farmers involved in stubble burning, a “red entry” will be recorded against their land as a mark of violation. Collected fines go directly to the accounts of the respective State Pollution Control Boards or Committees.

Delhi Air Pollution: Source-wise Contribution

Data from the Centre for Science and Environment shows that pollution sources break down as follows: 30.34% comes from within Delhi, with transportation making up 50.1% of that share. Neighboring NCR areas contribute 34.97%, while other regions add 27.94%. Stubble burning contributes a smaller portion, at just 8.19%, to Delhi's pollution levels.

According to the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, cases of stubble burning decreased from 71,829 in 2020 to 12,514 between September 16 and November 6 this year.

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