Andhra Pradesh Urges Farmers to Stop Burning Crop Residues

The Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Department has called on farmers to refrain from burning crop residues, emphasizing the significant benefits of incorporating these materials into the soil. This appeal comes as the Kharif paddy harvesting season has been in progress for the past two weeks, during which many farmers have resorted to setting fire to paddy straw and stubble post-harvest.

Manazir Jeelani Samoon, the Agriculture Director, highlighted the adverse effects of burning crop residues on soil health and the environment. In a press release issued on December 9, 2023, Samoon stated, “Farmers should strictly avoid burning crop residues and adopt residue incorporation to protect soil fertility.”

The practice of burning not only degrades soil health but also contributes to severe environmental pollution. Samoon detailed how such actions lead to the loss of vital soil nutrients, a decline in soil organic carbon, and the destruction of beneficial microorganisms. Additionally, he noted that burning increases soil acidity and poses public health risks due to pollution.

To combat this issue, the Rythu Seva Kendra staff will actively engage with local farmers to raise awareness about the harmful effects of burning straw and stubble. Field-level agriculture personnel have been instructed to counsel farmers and promote environmentally safe practices during the ongoing harvesting season.

Incorporating crop residues into the soil presents numerous advantages. It enriches soil fertility by supplementing essential nutrients, improves soil carbon levels, and enhances the yields of subsequent crops. According to Samoon, these practices are crucial for achieving long-term agricultural sustainability.

Samoon has urged agriculture and horticulture officials to intensify awareness campaigns across all districts, ensuring farmers adopt residue incorporation practices. He reminded them of the importance of following scientific recommendations issued by agricultural experts to protect soil health.

The push to stop burning crop residues is part of a broader initiative to foster sustainable agricultural practices in Andhra Pradesh. As the state continues to experience the challenges of modern farming, the emphasis on soil health and environmental stewardship is becoming increasingly vital.