SMAM: A Key Solution to Combat Stubble Burning and Promote Sustainable Farming

SMAM: A Key Solution to Combat Stubble Burning and Promote Sustainable Farming

The Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM) is an essential initiative in the fight against stubble burning, a common practice among farmers in states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Stubble burning, often carried out to clear fields quickly after the rice harvest, causes severe air pollution, especially during the winter months, leading to smog and health hazards. SMAM addresses this issue by providing farmers with access to modern machinery that helps manage crop residue efficiently without the need for burning. Machines like the Happy Seeder, Super Straw Management System, and Paddy Straw Chopper allow farmers to chop and incorporate stubble into the soil or sow the next crop without removing the residue, thus reducing the need for burning.

By offering financial assistance and subsidies, SMAM helps farmers, especially small and marginal ones, acquire these machines or access them through Custom Hiring Centers (CHCs) at affordable rates. These centers allow farmers to rent the equipment they need without the high upfront costs, making it easier to adopt sustainable farming practices. Through these efforts, SMAM provides an eco-friendly alternative to stubble burning, improving soil health, reducing air pollution, and fostering more sustainable agricultural practices across the country.

The initiative, though still facing challenges in widespread adoption, holds the potential to significantly reduce the environmental and health impacts of stubble burning, benefiting both farmers and the broader community.

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Confronting Delhi’s Air Crisis: Khushigram’s Ajit Kumar on Sustainable Solutions for a Breathable Future on Oneindia News

Confronting Delhi’s Air Crisis: Khushigram’s Ajit Kumar on Sustainable Solutions for a Breathable Future on Oneindia News

In this episode of Oneindia’s Special Series, host Aarushi Ranjan sits down with Ajit Kumar, the visionary founder of Khushigram, to discuss one of Delhi’s most pressing issues: the severe air quality crisis. As smog-filled days become more common, the health risks and impact on daily life have escalated, making the need for actionable solutions more urgent than ever. Ajit sheds light on how Khushigram, his pioneering initiative, is working towards creating a cleaner environment through sustainable agriculture practices and community engagement. His insights underscore the importance of rethinking urban spaces to incorporate greenery and reduce pollution levels.

Ajit emphasizes that the root of the solution lies in harnessing the power of agriculture and sustainable practices. From urban farming to reforestation and the promotion of eco-friendly crops, these innovations not only help purify the air but also offer a source of livelihood for communities. Ajit’s approach is holistic, advocating for a balance between ecological preservation and economic growth. By introducing natural, pollution-absorbing plants and engaging local communities in these efforts, Khushigram aims to build green pockets that act as breathing zones amidst the dense urban landscape.

The conversation also delves into policy recommendations, with Ajit advocating for stricter emissions controls and incentives for green infrastructure. According to him, sustainable living requires the collective effort of government, businesses, and individuals. Simple actions, like reducing vehicle use, planting more trees, and supporting local, sustainable products, can collectively create a significant impact. Ajit’s insights offer hope and a practical roadmap for a future where urban environments and healthy living go hand in hand. This episode reminds us that, though the challenge is immense, there are paths forward if we embrace sustainable practices and work together to combat air pollution.

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