In a decisive move to address air pollution, the Madhya Pradesh government has approved tough penalties against farmers found burning crop residue. The state Cabinet has decided to withhold financial assistance and deny Minimum Support Price (MSP) procurement benefits for a full year to those engaged in the environmentally harmful practice.

As part of the punitive action, farmers caught burning stubble will lose access to Rs 12,000 in yearly support provided under the Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme a joint contribution of Rs 6,000 each from the Centre and the state. Their agricultural produce will also not be eligible for MSP purchase during the suspension period.

Urban Development and Housing Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya Stance

“The aim isn’t to punish our farmer brothers, but to protect the environment,” said Urban Development and Housing Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya, who addressed reporters following the Cabinet meeting on April 29. “Small immediate gains from stubble burning can result in large, long-term damage, including for their own families and children,” he warned.

To reinforce the message, Vijayvargiya underlined that farmers must adopt responsible practices, as pollution from stubble burning has been directly linked to severe air quality issues in surrounding regions.

Madhya Pradesh Cabinet Clears New Transfer Policy

In addition to the environmental clampdown, the Madhya Pradesh Cabinet cleared a new transfer policy for state employees and officials, aiming to bring more transparency and efficiency into administrative operations.

The Cabinet also approved a 5% hike in the dearness allowance (DA) for state government staff, effectively aligning it with central government rates. This adjustment fulfills a commitment made earlier by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav.

The measures reflect the state’s dual commitment to climate responsibility and governance reform, while sending a clear message that eco-destructive actions will not be tolerated, regardless of profession.