Punjab Launches Crop Residue Management Loan Scheme to Tackle Stubble Burning

The Punjab Government has launched a new version of the Crop Residue Management (CRM) Loan Scheme to help stop stubble burning and support green farming. Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann announced that the scheme will be run through cooperative banks across the state.

Support for Farmers and Societies

This program aims to help farmers and cooperative groups buy machines for managing crop residue. It is expected to reduce seasonal air pollution and create fresh opportunities for rural communities. The initiative has been cleared under the guidance of Financial Commissioner Cooperation Sumer Singh Gurjar and Registrar of Cooperative Societies Girish Dayalan, ensuring broad participation from the agriculture sector.

Subsidy Benefits for PACS and MPCS

Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies (PACS) and Multi-Purpose Cooperative Societies (MPCS) can receive an 80% subsidy on equipment costs, with a limit of Rs 24 lakh. The margin money needed for these loans has been set at 10% of the total loan amount.

Benefits for Individual Farmers

Individual farmers will be given a 50% subsidy on machinery purchases. For them, the margin money requirement is fixed at 25% of the loan amount. This will make it easier for farmers to get advanced machines for managing crop waste.

Promoting Clean Energy and Farmer Welfare

This major decision will not only improve access to modern equipment but also help control air pollution caused by crop residue. The state government is also pushing for the use of this residue in bio-energy plants, supporting clean energy production and boosting Punjab’s green economy. The Chief Minister has underlined his government’s focus on environmental care, farmer welfare, and strengthening the cooperative system in the state. He said the scheme will empower farmers and tackle the environmental problems created by stubble burning.