Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas, CAQM, held significant review meetings with senior officials of Punjab yesterday and Haryana today in continuation of its sustained efforts to abate paddy stubble burning incidents in the region. Senior officers of various concerned departments, including District Magistrates/Deputy Commissioners and SSPs from 23 districts of Punjab and 22 districts of Haryana, attended the review meetings.

The  Environment Ministry said in a statement that the review focused on the preparedness of both states for the paddy harvesting season 2025, in compliance with the Commission’s Directions. These directions mandate effective in-situ and ex-situ crop residue management, eliminating paddy stubble burning in hotspot Districts, for monitoring and actions being undertaken by Punjab and Haryana. Flying Squad teams will be deputed in the two states for monitoring progress at the field level in the hotspot districts.

The state governments were requested to direct all concerned in the district administration to facilitate the Flying Squads and provide them with updated status from time to time. While appreciating the efforts and arrangements made so far by both States, CAQM reiterated that zero stubble burning during the upcoming season is non-negotiable.