Lambardars vow to fight against stubble burning

Responding to a call given by the Malerkotla DC Pallavi, the lambardars of the region vowed to support a campaign launched by the administration to get guidelines from the National Green Tribunal regarding the prohibition of stubble burning, implemented in letter and spirit.

Besides persuading paddy growers to shun the malpractice of burning agricultural wastes and crop residue to prepare their fields for the next crop, the lambardars undertook to get punitive action implemented against those causing pollution by setting paddy stubble on fire.

The senior vice president of the state body of the Lambardar Union, Bhagwan Singh Manki and the subdivision president, Jagdish Singh Baurhai, said they would not vouch for villagers who do not support the administration in implementing the guidelines of NGT regarding eco-friendly disposal of agricultural wastes and crop residues.

Bhagwan Singh Manki said, “We undertake to play an active role in achieving the zero-tolerance target of the district administration regarding prevention of stubble burning.” He said his associates would not protect those farmers who wilfully put stubble on fire.

Addressing a meeting at Malerkotla, Amargarh and Ahmedgarh, SDMs Harbans Singh and Surinder Kaur said the Lambardar was one of the most important functionaries of the government at the village level. He said, “Unfortunately people have ceased to realise the significance of the post who is supposed to work as the eyes, ears and nose of the administration.”

The SDMs said the lambardars should use their influence to persuade farmers to shun malpractice of stubble burning and provide timely information about any violation taking place in rural localities of the region.

DC Pallavi appreciated the efforts of the lambardars in supporting the administration’s campaign. She said outstanding performers would be felicitated during functions to be organised by the district administration from time to time.