Adopt in situ\, ex situ approaches to curb stubble burning: NGT

Delh

Adopt in situ, ex situ approaches to curb stubble burning: NGT

more-in

All green panel members meet top officials from four States, Centre

In a bid to curb stubble burning, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Thursday directed States to adopt a multi-method approach through in situ and ex situ management of crop residue.

Following summons issued by the green panel, the Chief Secretaries of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh had a two-hour meeting with all members of the NGT. Representatives from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, the Central Pollution Control Board and the Union Secretary Agriculture were also present.

The Bench headed by the NGT chairperson directed the States to compile data on instances of stubble burning “appropriately through revenue records”.

The NGT further told the Centre to “disburse funds well in time” so that they can be “utilised properly by the States”.

Status report

While the Union Ministry of Agriculture has been directed to continue monitoring instances of stubble burning, a committee earlier constituted by the NGT has been asked to furnish a status report in front of the tribunal on or before April 30, 2019. Additionally, State governments have been asked to continue the Information, Education and Communication (IEC) programmes.

Responding to submissions made by counsels appearing for various States, the green panel suggested that the governments consider discontinuing electricity subsidies for farmers who continue burning crop residue.

“Reports of incidents of fire are required to be verified with reference to satellite data,” the Bench added.

During the hearing, the counsel appearing for the Centre informed the tribunal that the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister has been reviewing the situation, and that five meetings were held with the States concerned between January and October.

The State governments also contended that various awareness programmes are being held to sensitise farmers against stubble burning. Taking into account the ongoing stubble burning, which is adversely affecting the environment, the NGT on Monday had directed the Chief Secretaries of the four States to be present before the tribunal.