As we all know farm stubble or paddy straw is a major problem for people of Haryana and Punjab, for whom the only way out to get rid of it is by burning it. However, burning paddy straw leads to a spike in the pollution level of these states and even in neighbouring places like Delhi which was in news for its hazardous pollution levels.

Farmers of Punjab and Haryana can now take a cue from the Chattisgarh farmers who have an out of box solution for the problem of farm stubble. They are using it to grow mushrooms which adds to their income and also helps protect the environment from the dangerous fumes that arise and pollute the air.

Initiative Of Forest Department

The Chattisgarh forest department initially would procure paddy straw from farmers and use it to cultivate mushrooms and make vermicompost. Forest Officer Mayank Pandey informed that they decided to train the farmers in these activities so that not only can the farmers earn additional income, but also it provides employment opportunities to many. This out of the box solution also helps in saving the environment as farmers no longer will burn farm stubble.

Praise from Environmentalists

Environmentalists are heaping praises on the forest department for this amazing initiative. Farmers who would burn paddy straw without realizing its ill effects on the environment are now trained to use it to cultivate mushrooms.  The department has also roped in women self-help groups and willing citizens for mushroom farming which has helped to increase their income. The paddy straw is also used to make vermicompost which improves the fertility of the soil.

Farmers of other states can replicate the above model and thus put paddy straw to good use instead of burning it which is disastrous for the environment.

Image Source: shasyadhara agriculture