Environment · GS3.5, GS2.3, GS2.1 · 2026-10-25 · 3 min read · 2026-10-25-am
CAQM Reviews Paddy Stubble Management Measures in Punjab Districts
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) conducted high-level reviews of paddy stubble management in Punjab's districts including Ropar, Hoshiyarpur, Amritsar, and Tarn Taran in October 2026. These reviews focused on preventing stubble burning by assessing machinery availability, utilization of paddy straw in industries, and strengthening field-level monitoring.
CAQM's review of paddy stubble management in Punjab emphasizes machinery facilitation, industrial utilization, and strict monitoring to reduce stubble burning incidents.
Why is this in the news?
In October 2026, CAQM led by its Chairperson reviewed paddy stubble management efforts in Punjab districts to address increasing stubble burning and air pollution.
What measures did CAQM review for paddy stubble management?
- Field visits and machinery assessment. CAQM's team visited thermal power plants, biomass plants, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, and farm fields to assess in-situ and ex-situ paddy straw management measures and machinery availability for farmers.
- Industrial utilization of paddy straw. The Commission reviewed mechanisms for using paddy straw as fuel in thermal power plants, brick kilns, and industries, including inspection of industrial boilers using paddy stubble pellets.
- Monitoring and coordination. CAQM emphasized proactive field-level monitoring, timely resolution of operational gaps, and strengthening coordination among farmers, Custom Hiring Centres, and machinery providers.
Why is CAQM focusing on paddy stubble management in Punjab?
- Rising stubble burning incidents. The Commission expressed concern over increased fire incidents in districts like Tarn Taran, directing intensified efforts to arrest and eliminate stubble burning.
- Air pollution control. Paddy stubble burning significantly contributes to air pollution, and CAQM's measures aim to reduce this source through effective residue management and resource utilization.
How is CAQM ensuring effective implementation of stubble management?
- Assigning sector-wise nodal officers. The Commission directed appointment of nodal officers responsible for ensuring actual utilization of paddy stubble by sectors and regular compliance monitoring.
- Facilitating farmers with machinery. CAQM stressed maximizing facilitation to farmers by ensuring timely availability and deployment of Crop Residue Management (CRM) machinery during peak harvesting.
- Accountability and strict action. The Commission warned that any laxity in taking effective measures against stubble burning would invite strict action and accountability.
Key numbers
| Figure | What it measures | Source |
|---|---|---|
| October 2026 | Month when CAQM conducted reviews of paddy stubble management in Punjab |
Back to basics: Paddy Stubble Burning and Air Pollution
Paddy stubble burning is the practice of setting fire to the leftover stalks after harvesting rice crops. This releases large amounts of smoke and particulate matter, contributing to severe air pollution and health hazards. Managing paddy stubble through in-situ methods (like machinery that chops and incorporates residue into soil) and ex-situ methods (like using residue as fuel in industries) helps reduce pollution and promotes resource utilization.
Practice: MCQ, Mains and revision
Prelims MCQ
Consider the following statements about the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) and its role in paddy stubble management: 1. CAQM reviews and directs measures including machinery facilitation and industrial utilization of paddy stubble to prevent stubble burning. 2. CAQM appoints sector-wise nodal officers to monitor compliance and ensure utilization of paddy stubble by industries. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Answer and trap
Answer: (c). A careless reader might think CAQM only reviews measures without appointing nodal officers, but the Commission explicitly directs sector-wise nodal officers for monitoring.
Mains question (15 marks)
Examine the role of regulatory bodies like the Commission for Air Quality Management in addressing environmental pollution caused by agricultural practices such as paddy stubble burning.
Examine: Explain how bodies like CAQM regulate and implement measures to control pollution from paddy stubble burning, with examples from recent reviews.
Intro: Introduce the environmental challenge posed by paddy stubble burning and the need for regulatory oversight.
- Describe CAQM's mandate and its focus on air quality management in NCR and adjoining areas including Punjab.
- Explain the measures reviewed by CAQM such as machinery facilitation, industrial utilization, and field monitoring.
- Discuss the importance of coordination among stakeholders and accountability mechanisms enforced by CAQM.
- Highlight the impact of these measures on reducing stubble burning and improving air quality.
Conclusion: Conclude that regulatory bodies like CAQM play a critical role in enforcing environmental laws and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Previous year question (2016, GS3)
The frequency of urban floods due to high intensity rainfall is increasing over the years. Discussing the reasons for urban floods, highlight the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events.
The CAQM's review of paddy stubble management exemplifies preparedness and risk reduction mechanisms for environmental disasters such as air pollution and related health hazards.
Quick revision
- What is the primary focus of CAQM's recent reviews in Punjab?
- To assess and improve paddy stubble management measures to prevent stubble burning and reduce air pollution.
- Which districts in Punjab were specifically mentioned in CAQM's review?
- Ropar, Hoshiyarpur, Amritsar, and Tarn Taran.
- What role do sector-wise nodal officers play in paddy stubble management?
- They ensure actual utilization of paddy stubble by industries and monitor compliance regularly.
Sources
- [1] Press Information Bureau: A high-level team lead by Chairperson, CAQM reviews Paddy Stubble Management measures in Ropar, Hoshiyarpur and Amritsar · 2026-10-23 · official
- [2] Press Information Bureau: CAQM reviews Paddy Stubble Management measures in Amritsar and Tarn Taran · 2026-10-24 · official