The Haryana government has introduced a new framework aimed at reducing farm fires, which significantly contribute to air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region during winter. The state’s agriculture department estimates that 38.8 lakh acres of paddy will be cultivated this year, generating 81 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of crop residue. Traditionally, farmers burn this stubble to clear fields for new crops, which, combined with winter conditions, exacerbates pollution and leads to smog. To manage these residues, the state has outlined a comprehensive plan. Of the total residue, 22.65 LMT will be used for fodder, 33.04 LMT will be processed on-site (in-situ), and 25.39 LMT will be handled off-site (ex-situ). To promote in-situ management, the government will provide 90,000 machines and offer Rs 1,000 per acre to farmers. For ex-situ management, stubble will be repurposed into biofuels or used in industries like packaging. The plan also includes establishing 1,405 baler machines and collaborating with industries to purchase the residue, with the government investing Rs 107.2 crore and the central government contributing Rs 160.9 crore.