How can policy approaches and legal prosecution be balanced to address stubble-burning effectively?
The Supreme Court and the central government have differing views on handling stubble-burning: one supports prosecution, while the other suggests policy measures. I want to understand how both methods can be combined for better results.
Stubble-burning is a major environmental issue in India, especially in northern states, causing severe air pollution and health hazards. Addressing this problem requires a balanced approach that combines strict legal action with supportive policy measures to ensure both deterrence and practical alternatives for farmers.
- Legal Prosecution:
- Acts as a deterrent by penalizing repeat offenders and enforcing accountability.
- Ensures compliance with environmental laws, such as the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
- Targets large-scale or deliberate violations, sending a strong message against stubble-burning.
- Policy Approaches:
- Provide subsidies and financial incentives for adopting alternative technologies like Happy Seeder, Super Straw Management System, etc.
- Promote awareness campaigns to educate farmers about the harmful effects of stubble-burning and available alternatives.
- Develop infrastructure for crop residue management, such as collection, transport, and use in bioenergy plants.
- Encourage research and extension services to support sustainable farming practices.
- Balancing Both Methods:
- Implement a graded approach: prioritize policy support and incentives initially, while reserving prosecution for persistent violators.
- Establish monitoring systems to differentiate between willful and unavoidable cases, ensuring fair application of laws.
- Involve local governance bodies (Panchayats, cooperatives) in both enforcement and support measures.
- Review and adapt policies based on ground realities and feedback from farmers to make compliance practical.
Answered
12 hours ago