New Delhi: The problem of pollution in the national capital has become quite common in the months of November and December.
Stubble burning is said to be the main reason behind this recurring problem of pollution.
Recently, scientists at Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) at Pusa in New Delhi prepared a capsule for stubble management.
It is called bio decomposer. This capsule is proving to be so effective for stubble management that the institute is not able to meet the demand of the state governments and farmers.
About 1,600 capsules are being prepared every week to meet the growing demand, which is going up with each passing day.
Speaking to ETV Bharat, Prof K Annapurna, HOD of Microbiology, IARI, talked extensively about the entire technique.
She said that after Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s interest in bio-decomposer, other states have also shown their interest in this capsule.
Apart from Delhi, farmers in states like Punjab and Haryana are also using this capsule to manage their farm residue.
Use of Capsule Prevents Stubble Burning
This technology is effective in preventing pollution, says Prof Annapurna. "No chemical is used in making the capsule and within 15-20 days after spraying the decomposer, this bio decomposer mixes the starch into the ground. This does not destroy soil’s nutrients and acts like compost," she said.
She further informed that so far this kit has been given for 17,480 hectares of land and efforts are being made to fulfil the demand, but it is getting difficult.
"Almost 90 per cent of decomposition takes place within 15 days. Farmers have liked this and they are giving good feedback as well. After this, the field gets ready for the next crop," She informed.
Prof Annapurna further said that so far 400 kits are being prepared every week.
"A kit consists of four capsules. A kit decomposes one hectare of land containing 5-6 tonnes of straw. Before this, a solution is made and then it is sprayed on the straw. The price of one capsule is only Rs 20 rupees," She said.
"This year it is showing good effect. The capsules will be further improved in the coming days. Its favourable effect will be seen directly on the level of pollution," she added.
Also Read: Stubble burning contributes 40% to Delhi's pollution
