Legal Action for Rice Harvesting Without SMS
District Magistrate enforces SMS requirement for combine harvesters to prevent crop residue burning.
Yash Saini 
Ambedkar Nagar:A meeting chaired by District Magistrate Avinash Singh addressed the urgent need to curb crop residue burning. The meeting emphasized that burning agricultural waste is a punishable offense under sections 24 and 26 of the National Green Tribunal Act. During the session, the Deputy Director of Agriculture outlined penalties for environmental compensation, which vary based on the area of land involved. Violations can lead to fines ranging from ₹2,500 to ₹15,000, and repeat offenders may face imprisonment.
The District Magistrate stressed the mandatory installation of Super Straw Management Systems (SMS) in all combine harvesters. He directed that any harvesting done without this system would lead to the seizure of the equipment and legal action. Block Development Officers were instructed to raise awareness among village heads about the detrimental effects of burning crop residue on soil and the environment. Additionally, farmers are encouraged to collect straw for composting, promoting the slogan "Burn Straw, Get Fertilizer," which facilitates the exchange of straw for organic fertilizer at local cow shelters.
