Amid complaints of stubble burning, the Haryana Police has registered a First Information Report (FIR) on Wednesday against a farmer for allegedly burning crop residue in Kithwari village, Palwal, on the day of Diwali, officials said.
The FIR was filed against Harvir, a farmer from Ronija village, officials said.
According to Dr Babulal, Deputy Director of Palwal’s Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department, the complaint against the farmer was based on information provided by the patwari (village land record keeper) and local residents.
Dr Babulal stated that departmental teams are continuously raising awareness among farmers to avoid stubble burning and contribute to environmental protection. “Farmers are being encouraged to manage crop residue, which can also generate additional income. The government provides an incentive of Rs 1,200 per acre for stubble management, promoting both environmental conservation and financial benefits.”
On Tuesday, teams visited various villages to encourage farmers to adopt crop residue management practices. Assistant Technical Manager Atul Sharma highlighted that field teams are educating farmers about the harmful effects of stubble burning, which increases air pollution, reduces soil fertility, and destroys beneficial bacteria and insects.
“Strict action will continue against violators. Fines are set at Rs 5,000 for burning residue on up to two acres, Rs 10,000 for up to five acres, and Rs 30,000 for over five acres. Offenders will also face FIRs and a red entry on the Meri Fasal-Mera Byora portal, preventing them from selling crops at government rates in markets. Farmers are urged to adopt residue management practices to avoid penalties,” Dr Babulal added.
This development comes a day after two more complaints tied to alleged incidents of stubble burning in Janauli and Kithwari villages were filed.
On Sunday, an FIR was registered against one Jeetram in Katuali for stubble burning, and a fine of Rs 10,000 was imposed, officials said. In Kithwari, following an alleged incident of stubble burning on Monday, authorities are identifying the landowner with the help of villagers, and action will follow after investigation, a district administration spokesperson said.
