Shifts in Stubble Burning Practices and Air Quality in India

Every year, from October to December, farmers in northern India, particularly in Punjab and Haryana, engage in stubble burning to clear fields after the rice harvest. This practice significantly contributes to air pollution, especially in urban areas like Delhi, where pollution levels can exceed World Health Organization recommendations. In 2025, air quality deteriorated sharply, with pollution levels reaching over 400 on India's air quality index, prompting school closures and stricter regulations on construction activities.

New Timing for Stubble Burning in India

Recent observations indicate a notable shift in the timing of stubble burning. Traditionally, fires were predominantly set in the early afternoon, but data from the GEO-KOMPSAT-2A satellite shows that most fires now occur between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. This change has implications for air quality, as evening fires may lead to a greater accumulation of pollutants overnight due to meteorological conditions that favor stagnant air.

New Timing for Stubble Burning in IndiaThe Hindu

In a statement to Parliament, the Indian Environment Ministry claimed that fire incidents in Punjab and Haryana had decreased by 90% in 2025 compared to 2022. However, this assertion has been challenged by scientists, including Dr. Hiren Jethva from Morgan State University and NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. Jethva argues that the actual number of stubble burning incidents could be 10 to 11 times higher than the government's reported figure of approximately 5,000. This discrepancy has been supported by findings from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), which also noted that farmers are evading satellite monitoring.

Scientist Disputes Indian Government Claim That Polluting Farm Fires Have Reduced By 90%New Timing for Stubble Burning in India

The contribution of stubble burning to air pollution remains a subject of ongoing research. Estimates of its impact vary widely, with some studies suggesting that stubble burning accounts for 10% to 50% of pollution levels, while others, including estimates from NASA's Pawan Gupta, indicate that it could range from 40% to 70% on specific days. The timing of the fires plays a crucial role in determining their effect on air quality, as evening burns may exacerbate pollution due to atmospheric conditions that trap pollutants.

New Timing for Stubble Burning in India

The Indian government's assertion of a significant reduction in stubble burning has faced skepticism from the scientific community. Critics argue that the methods used to monitor and report stubble burning incidents are inadequate, leading to misleading conclusions about the effectiveness of policies aimed at reducing air pollution. The debate highlights the complexities of addressing agricultural practices that contribute to environmental challenges.

New Timing for Stubble Burning in India

The evolving practices of stubble burning in India, particularly the shift in timing, have significant implications for air quality and public health. While government claims suggest a reduction in burning incidents, scientific scrutiny reveals potential discrepancies that warrant further investigation. As the agricultural calendar continues to intersect with environmental concerns, the need for accurate monitoring and effective policy responses remains critical.

New Timing for Stubble Burning in India