🔆 Question: Discuss the need for holistic solutions to address the problem of air pollution caused by crop residue and stubble burning in North India. 📍 Answer ✅ Introduction Stubble burning in states like Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan is a major contribution to North India’s air pollution crisis. The short window between paddy harvest and wheat sowing forces farmers to burn stubble, leading to severe air pollution, health issues, and soil degradation. ✅ Environmental and Health Impacts Pollutants Released: Stubble burning emits methane (CH4), carbon monoxide (CO), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and carcinogenic hydrocarbons, worsening urban air quality. Health Problems: Causes respiratory issues like asthma, lung disease, and cardiovascular problems, especially in cities like Delhi. ✅ Impact on Soil and Agriculture Soil Degradation: Burning destroys essential nutrients and increases soil erosion. Loss of Soil Health: Reduces soil moisture and kills beneficial microbes critical for fertility. ✅ Need for Holistic Solutions Limitations of Current Measures: Laws like Section 188 IPC and incentives exist, but they lack widespread impact. Proposed Solutions: Technological Innovations: Enzyme-based decomposition, biochar, and biogas plants. Alternative Uses: Stubble for cattle feed, mushroom cultivation, and bioethanol production (e.g., Rice Bio Parks as suggested by M.S. Swaminathan). Incentives and Awareness: Models like Balloh village offering Rs. 500 per acre for not burning stubble. ✅ Conclusion A holistic approach, combining technology, policy support, and farmer participation, is essential to address stubble burning sustainably and mitigate its impact on air quality and public health.