Context
With the onset of the paddy harvest season, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has intensified efforts to tackle stubble burning, a major source of air pollution in Delhi-NCR during winter. The new directive strengthens administrative accountability and aims to curb recurring pollution spikes in North India.
Key Highlights
- New Directive by CAQM (October 1, 2025):
District-level authorities — Collectors, Magistrates, and Deputy Commissioners — across Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi are now empowered to directly file complaints before judicial magistrates against negligent officials. - Accountability Clause:
The order specifies that nodal officers, supervisory officers, and even Station House Officers (SHOs) can be held personally responsible if found negligent in enforcing anti-pollution and anti-burning measures. - Legal Empowerment:
This step provides a judicial enforcement pathway against administrative inaction — a shift from mere advisories to legal accountability. - ‘Strict Vigil’ Reiterated:
CAQM has reminded states to maintain constant and strict surveillance over stubble burning.
A similar directive was issued in 2024, but enforcement has remained inconsistent. - Data on Current Season (as per IARI):
- Punjab: 95 incidents recorded so far (Sep 15–Oct 1, 2025).
- Previous year: 179 incidents during the same period — lowest in six years.
- Source: Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) satellite monitoring.
- Supreme Court’s Role:
The directive follows the Supreme Court’s recent call for stronger punitive measures against stubble burning and administrative apathy. - Seasonal Link to Pollution:
- Air quality in Delhi-NCR deteriorates sharply in October–November due to meteorological factors (low wind speed, temperature inversion).
- Stubble burning coincides with this period, worsening PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations.
Mains Question
“Despite multiple interventions, stubble burning remains a persistent source of air pollution in northern India. Discuss how administrative accountability and policy innovation can address this challenge effectively.”