A transformative movement is taking root in Moga district as a group of 20 young farmers from Patto and neighboring villages have committed to an environmentally friendly agricultural practice: refraining from burning paddy stubble. This collective pledge spans 250 acres of farmland, marking a significant step towards sustainable farming in the region.
Deputy Commissioner Vishesh Sarangal recently met with these proactive youngsters to commend their initiative. “Their dedication sets a powerful example for others in the community. I encourage more farmers to adopt similar practices,” Sarangal remarked during the meeting, highlighting the importance of their efforts in promoting ecological stewardship.
Leading the charge is Farmer Satnam Singh, who has been at the forefront of this movement since 2016. “We made a conscious decision to stop burning stubble and embrace sustainable agricultural methods,” Singh explained. “This shift has not only lowered our operational costs but also boosted our crop yields,” he added, underscoring the tangible benefits of their approach.
The group employs a strategic method that involves ploughing the paddy stubble back into the soil and planting potatoes within three to four days of harvesting. This technique not only reduces the time required for soil preparation but also minimizes the dependency on chemical fertilizers. By integrating the stubble into the soil, they enhance soil fertility and structure, promoting healthier crop growth.
Financially, the impact of abandoning stubble burning is substantial. The farmers are saving approximately ₹3,000 per acre on fertilizers and are witnessing an increase of about 10 quintals in potato yields per acre. These savings and increased productivity are significant incentives for other farmers to consider similar practices.
“The machinery provided by the Punjab Government has been instrumental in our success,” Sarangal noted. “These young farmers are actively encouraging their peers to adopt this eco-friendly approach, demonstrating the effectiveness of government support in fostering sustainable agriculture.”
The Deputy Commissioner emphasized the crucial role of youth in driving agricultural innovation. “When the younger generation takes the lead, we can achieve remarkable progress. I urge all farmers, especially the youth, to join this mission to protect our environment and secure our agricultural future,” he urged, highlighting the potential for widespread adoption of sustainable practices.
Sarangal also pointed out that the district has over 7,300 crop residue management (CRM) machines available to assist farmers in implementing these practices. These machines facilitate the efficient incorporation of crop residue into the soil, making the transition smoother and more accessible for the farming community.
Since adopting these practices, the group has not only fostered environmental sustainability but also set a precedent for economic benefits among their peers. The reduction in fertilizer use and the increase in crop yields present a compelling case for the widespread adoption of such methods across the district and beyond.
The success story of these 20 youngsters from Patto serves as an inspiring example of how collective action and innovative farming techniques can lead to significant environmental and economic gains. As more farmers observe the benefits, the hope is that this initiative will expand, contributing to the broader goals of sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation in Punjab.
With the support of government initiatives and the leadership of motivated youth, Moga district is poised to become a model for sustainable farming practices, demonstrating that environmental responsibility and agricultural productivity can go hand in hand.
