Parali Protection Force | 16 May 2025

Source: TOI 

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has directed Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh to establish a Parali Protection Force to curb stubble burning,  a major cause of air pollution in Delhi-NCR. 

• Key Directives by CAQM: 
  • Formation of Parali Protection Force: A dedicated force at district/block levels consisting of police, agriculture officers, and officials for 24/7 to monitor and prevent stubble burning. 
  • Penalties for Burning: Farmers face environmental compensation fines and "Red Entries" in farm records for stubble burning. 
  • Support for Farmers: Assign a nodal officer for every 50 farmers for monitoring and assistance, provide rent-free Crop Residue Management (CRM) machines via Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs), and replace outdated machines by August 2025. 
  • Storage and Utilization: Use Govt/Panchayat land for storing paddy straw bales and establish a district-level supply chain for residue collection, storage, and bioenergy use. 
  • Digital Monitoring: Setup real-time online platform to track paddy residue generation and use. 
• CAQM is a statutory body formed under the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas, Act 2021 to formulate air pollution control strategies for Delhi-NCR and the adjoining areas.