Decentralised Biochar Production Offers a Viable Solution for Stubble Burning

Gist The recurring crisis of paddy stubble burning in Punjab is largely driven by the high costs and logistical challenges of residue management during the narrow window before wheat sowing. However, converting this biomass into biochar through decentralised, village-level units offers a sustainable alternative. This approach not only prevents emissions but also transforms a waste product into a valuable agricultural input that improves soil health and water retention. For a civil services aspirant, understanding this shift from merely penalising farmers to creating local circular economies is crucial for agricultural and environmental policy questions. Background Stubble burning is a primary contributor to winter air pollution in North India, particularly in Delhi-NCR, as farmers quickly clear fields after the Kharif paddy harvest to prepare for Rabi wheat sowing. Historically, governments have relied on a mix of penalties and subsidies for heavy mechanical implements like Happy Seeders to manage crop residue. However, the commercial value of crop residue has recently increased due to demand from Compressed Biogas CBG units, biomass power plants, and pellet manufacturers, shifting the perspective from waste disposal to value…