Stubble-burning incidents are increasing again as the paddy harvesting season gets underway, raising concerns about another winter air pollution crisis in Delhi-NCR. Between September 15 and October 6, 2026, satellites detected 287 crop-residue burning incidents across Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand and Madhya Pradesh, according to data from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute's CREAMS bulletin. Madhya Pradesh recorded the highest number of incidents at 118, followed by Punjab with 88 and Uttar Pradesh with 65. The figures highlight how agricultural fires remain a recurring challenge for air quality across northern India.

The resurgence of stubble burning has renewed questions about whether technology can help prevent farmers from setting fire to crop residue. Burning remains a quick and inexpensive way for farmers to clear their fields after harvesting paddy and prepare the land for the next crop. Although crop-residue management machinery is available, its cost, accessibility and availability can limit its use. Experts argue that prevention efforts must address these practical challenges rather than relying solely on restrictions and penalties.

Satellite monitoring is already helping authorities detect and track agricultural fires across states. The CREAMS system provides information through bulletins and dashboards, allowing officials to monitor the location and spread of crop-residue burning. On October 6 alone, satellites detected 33 incidents across the seven states, with Madhya Pradesh accounting for 24, or around 73 per cent. However, monitoring technology can deliver better results when combined with ground-level verification, timely intervention and enforcement measures.

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Experts have also called for greater use of technology to turn agricultural waste into an economically valuable resource. Crop residue can potentially be used in biomass-based systems and supplied to industries that need it as raw material or fuel. If farmers have access to viable markets and receive financial returns for collecting and supplying residue, burning it may become less attractive. Such solutions, however, require practical collection systems, suitable infrastructure and affordable access for farmers.

The challenge extends beyond agricultural fires, as Delhi-NCR's air pollution is also driven by vehicular emissions, road dust, industrial activity and other sources. The Commission for Air Quality Management has reviewed preparations for the winter pollution season, including measures to prevent stubble burning, control industrial emissions and reduce construction and road dust. Effective implementation across states and government agencies will be crucial to reducing pollution during the coming months.

Experts have cautioned that no single technology can resolve Delhi-NCR's air pollution problem. Satellite surveillance can improve detection, while crop-residue management machinery, biomass utilisation and other cleaner technologies can address the causes of burning. These interventions must be supported by coordination between agricultural departments, local authorities and industries. As winter approaches, the effectiveness of these combined measures will be important in determining whether the region can limit the seasonal deterioration in air quality.

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