Putting some behind bars will send right message: SC on stubble burning, Pg 1.

Key Highlights:

• The Supreme Court suggested reintroducing penal provisions, including arrest, under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, to prosecute farmers for stubble burning.
• The court's suggestion aims to deter stubble burning, a major contributor to air pollution in the Delhi-NCR area, especially during winter.
• The court directed the CAQM, CPCB, and state pollution control boards to propose measures to prevent air pollution within three weeks.
• The court has fixed the next hearing for October 8.

Detailed Insights:

• Stubble burning significantly worsens air quality in Delhi-NCR, particularly in winter, prompting the court's concern.
• The Central government expressed a national policy of not prosecuting farmers, advocating for alternative solutions and cooperation.
• The court acknowledged the importance of supporting farmers with options like biofuel production but stressed a "carrot-and-stick" approach.
• The CAQM Act allows prosecution of erring officials, but the court questioned the effectiveness of monitoring at the block level.
• The Haryana government has reduced vacancies in its pollution control board, and the court has mandated filling remaining vacancies within three months.
• In 2018, the SC had directed the Centre to create a scheme providing subsidized equipment for paddy harvesting.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Stubble Burning: The practice of setting fire to crop residue after harvest, contributing to air pollution.
• Environment (Protection) Act, 1986: Comprehensive legislation providing a framework for environmental protection in India.
• Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM): Body responsible for formulating strategies to combat pollution in the National Capital Region.