Innovative farmer reaps rewards by mixing crop residue into soil
A progressive farmer from Sahari village, Palwinder Singh, has set an inspiring example by not burning crop residue for the last eight years. Instead, he mixes it back into the soil, improving the fertility of his land and increasing his crop yield. His dedication towards sustainable farming has earned him the title of ‘guardian of environment’.
Palwinder Singh, who jointly owns 15 acres of cultivable land with his brother, said that he started adopting modern agricultural techniques nearly 10 years ago after consulting the Agriculture Department. Guided by officials of the Agricultural Department, he decided never to burn crop residue and began using farm machinery to mix wheat straw and paddy stubble into the soil.
He said the results have been encouraging with the productivity of his land improving and his crops now giving higher yields. “By not burning stubble, I have saved the environment from pollution and at the same time increased the fertility of my soil,” he said with satisfaction.
To spread awareness about sustainable farming, Palwinder Singh, along with other progressive farmers, has formed a group called the ‘Young Innovative Club’. Through this club, they organise meetings and awareness drives in nearby villages to motivate other farmers to avoid stubble burning. Inspired by his success, many farmers in the region have also stopped setting fire to crop residue and started adopting eco-friendly farming practices.
Palwinder Singh appealed to fellow farmers to stop burning paddy straw and other crop residues. “If we all stop burning fields, the air will be cleaner, and the fertility of our soil will improve. This will ultimately help us grow better crops and protect our environment,” he said.
In recognition of his continuous efforts to protect the environment, the local administration has honoured Palwinder Singh with the ‘Guardian of Environment Award’. His journey stands as a shining example of how small steps in sustainable agriculture can bring big changes in both farming and environmental protection.
Amritsar