The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change announced on 24 October 2026 that the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) reviewed paddy stubble management in Amritsar and Tarn Taran districts. The Commission directed officials to maximize the use of stubble as fuel in industries, brick kilns, and power plants to eliminate stubble burning. Nodal officers will be assigned to monitor industry compliance, and district administrations must ensure machinery reaches farmers on time. The release does not say when these directions take effect.
Key points
- Nodal Officers must monitor and report the actual use of paddy stubble by industries.
- District administrations must coordinate between farmers, machinery providers, and Custom Hiring Centres.
- Tarn Taran district officials must prioritize preventing stubble burning due to high incident rates.
- Field officers are directed to ensure machinery and facilities reach farmers in a timely manner.
When it applies
- review meeting with Deputy Commissioners of Amritsar and Tarn Taran
Who it affects
- District Administrations