Archive · 21 Nov 2025
Punjab's Progress in Curbing Stubble Burning Challenges Delhi's Blame Game
Punjab has made big strides in reducing stubble burning, which helps clean the air.
The head of Punjab's pollution control board says it's wrong to blame Punjab farmers for Delhi's pollution.
She wants the central government to help states fight pollution together, instead of playing the blame game.
Punjab is also working to improve its own air quality by tackling different pollution sources.
Punjab has significantly reduced stubble burning, with only 5,000 incidents this year
PPCB chairperson Reena Gupta attributes success to awareness campaigns and supply chain improvements
Gupta criticizes blame game, urges Centre to support states in tackling pollution
Punjab's AQI improvement efforts include addressing garbage burning, road dust, and industrial pollution
PPCB aims to eliminate 'Inspector Raj', promoting self-regulation and real-time data access for industries
- Who
- Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) chairperson Reena Gupta
- What
- Reduced stubble burning and improved air quality in Punjab
- When
- Over the last three years, with significant progress this year
- Where
- Punjab, with impacts on Delhi's air quality
- Why
- To address pollution and health concerns, and conserve water resources
Punjab Government's Stance
Delhi and Central Government's Stance
Responsibility for Delhi's pollution
Punjab Government's Stance
It's wrong to blame Punjab farmers; pollution is a national issue that requires collective action
Delhi and Central Government's Stance
Blaming Punjab for Delhi's pollution; Punjab should manage the issue on its own
- Stubble burning incidents in 2021
- 5,000
- Punjab's AQI improvement initiative
- Punjab Clean Air Programme
- Estimated number of people affected by Buddha Nullah pollution
- 30,000-40,000