Yogi Adityanath issues strict instructions to curb stubble burning in UP

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday issued strict instructions on stubble burning, directing officials to ensure that burning of crops did not take place in the state. Principal Secretary SP Goel, as per the Chief Minister’s Office has spoken to all commissioners in Uttar Pradesh asking them to curb instances of stubble burning. The UP CMO statement stated that this practice denies animals their rightful share of fodder as well as kills the friendly bacteria present in the soil. Furthermore, the statement read that stubble burning permanently damages the environment.  

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The UP CMO statement notes, "Due to stubble burning, the animals do not get their rightful share of fodder and the practice also kills the friendly bacteria and fungi present in abundance in the soil. Thus, the practice permanently damages the environment and fertility of the soil." 

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Creating awareness 

CM Adityanath has observed that the concerned departments must spread awareness among the farmers regarding this issue. He reckoned that the farmers should be encouraged to convert the stubble into organic fertiliser. This follows his appeal to the farmers in October when he requested them not to burn the stubble left in the fields after harvesting of crops.  

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Former Congress CM deflects blame 

Former Haryana CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda stated that stubble burning was not the only reason behind the increase in air pollution. Conceding that it was a serious issue, he maintained that the Central, as well as State governments, should find solutions rather than blaming the farmers. He urged the authorities to provide alternatives to the farmers. Hooda contended that the major causes of air pollution were industries, construction among others. On the other hand, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal has blamed Haryana and Punjab for the high levels of air pollution in the national capital.  

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(With ANI inputs)