Punjab CM Mann Opposes FIRs Against Farmers Over Stubble Burning
· India · The Hindu, Indian Express
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann stated on Saturday (September 19, 2026) that he opposes filing FIRs against farmers for stubble burning. He emphasised that paddy growers should instead receive a cash incentive of ₹3,000 per acre to manage crop residue. Addressing the Kisan Mela at Punjab Agricultural University in Ludhiana on Friday (September 18), Mr. Mann noted that farmers are unfairly blamed for Delhi's air pollution while contributing 180 lakh metric tonnes of paddy to the central pool. He added that he has communicated to the Centre that farmers do not wish to burn stubble because the smoke directly affects them. The Chief Minister also questioned whether emissions from neighbouring Haryana and Uttar Pradesh contribute to regional smog alongside Punjab.
Why it matters
The stance directly impacts millions of farmers in Punjab facing potential legal action over crop residue management, while shaping the policy debate on north Indian air quality and agricultural subsidies.
Read the original report — The Hindu
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