Central govt increases fine
The Indian government has taken a significant step to address the growing pollution problem by increasing fines for stubble burning. According to reports, the government has imposed a penalty for stubble burning based on land size: Rs 5,000 for land less than two acres, and Rs 10,000 for land over two acres.
Central govt increases fine
A Gazette notification in this regard has been issued, which clearly states that anyone found burning stubble on 2 to 5 acres of land will be fined Rs 10,000. Additionally, if stubble is burned on land exceeding 5 acres, the penalty will be Rs 30,000. Previously, the fines were Rs 2,500, Rs 5,000, and Rs 15,000 for these respective categories.
Central govt increases fine
Sources indicate that the decision to increase the fines for stubble burning was made on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, but the official notification was released the following day, Thursday, November 7. The notification also introduces new provisions under the Environment Protection Act (EPA), 1986, regarding the filing of complaints and the investigation process.
Central govt increases fine
According to a report from Indian Express, the revised rules have been notified under the Air Quality Management Commission Act, 2021, for the National Capital Region (NCR) and surrounding areas. These rules will come into effect immediately and will be applied without public consultation, as part of a draft notification.
Central govt increases fine
Furthermore, the government has also issued a notification regarding the Environmental Protection (Investigation and Penalty Procedure) Rules, 2024. This provides a detailed procedure for filing complaints at the Pollution Control Boards, the Air Quality Management Commission, and the Ministry of Environment’s offices. It also outlines the process for investigating environmental pollution complaints and making decisions on these cases.
