16 Mandsaur farmers fined Rs 42,500 for stubble burning

Indore: The Mandsaur district administration has penalised 16 farmers in Sitamau region for burning wheat straw (narwai) in their fields to curb environmental pollution. A total fine of Rs 42,500 was recovered from the violators.According to the directives of Madhya Pradesh govt's environment department and National Green Tribunal (NGT), burning of wheat or paddy residue is strictly prohibited under Section 19(5) of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. Individuals or organisations found violating these norms are liable to pay environmental compensation.A sub-divisional officer (SDO) oversaw the recovery of fines from the farmers. Ambalal from Sakhtali village faced the highest fine of Rs 5,000, while the remaining 15 farmers were each fined Rs 2,500.The administration has issued a fresh appeal to farming community, urging them to adopt eco-friendly alternatives instead of burning crop residue.Officials said that burning stubble caused severe air pollution and destroyed essential soil nutrients and beneficial microorganisms. They encouraged farmers to use scientific methods, such as converting residue into manure, to support environmental conservation.