Haryana recorded a significant rise in farm fires this April and May, with 3,134 incidents reported, the highest
in three years, according to the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI). This marks a 42% increase from
last year’s 1,900 fires, which were unusually low due to pre-monsoon showers. In contrast, 2022 saw 2,879
farm fires, still lower than this year’s count. While crop residue burning is typically associated with winter, the
rising summer cases are alarming. Karnal reported the highest number of fires among Haryana districts,
followed by Rohtak and Jind. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) highlighted the impact of
these fires on Delhi-NCR’s air quality, worsened by dry weather. Efforts to curb this practice include government
subsidies for residue-clearing machinery and public awareness campaigns. Experts emphasize that poor air
quality due to farm fires isn’t just a winter issue. They also suggest monetising wheat residue, which holds value
for biofuel producers and pastoral communities, as an eco-friendly alternative to burning.