Advanced Machinery for Crop Residue Management in India: Challenges and Opportunities

DOI: https://doie.org/10.10399/APER.2025139602

Authors:

Vikas Kikan, Dr. Smitha Girija

Keywords:

Crop residue, Stubble burning, Machinery, Sustainability, Agriculture, Biomass, Awareness, Adoption, Technology, Policy, Baling, Utilization, Environment

Abstract:

India, one of the world’s largest agricultural producers, generates millions of tons of crop residue annually. A significant portion remains unutilized and is often burned in the open, particularly in states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. This practice contributes heavily to air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and soil degradation. Despite the availability of technologies such as balers, straw reapers, and shredders, their widespread adoption remains limited.

This study explores the current status, challenges, and opportunities in promoting mechanized crop residue management across India. Using a qualitative methodology, 25 in-depth interviews were conducted with policymakers, scientists, machinery manufacturers, sustainability experts, and field-level implementers. The research identifies key barriers such as high machinery costs, limited access to financing, lack of awareness, and insufficient training. Although government subsidies and schemes exist to promote mechanization, issues like delayed disbursement, low awareness, and weak last-mile implementation dilute their effectiveness.

Findings also indicate that behavioral inertia and absence of localized capacity building contribute to the persistence of residue burning. Many small and marginal farmers still choose burning due to habit, convenience, and lack of viable alternatives. However, some successful public-private partnerships demonstrate potential, where crop residue is processed for biomass energy and other value-added uses.

Logistical challenges—such as transporting and storing biomass—remain major bottlenecks. The study concludes that while technology exists, systemic gaps in policy, finance, awareness, and infrastructure hinder adoption. It recommends a multi-stakeholder approach involving coordinated policy reform, targeted training, innovative financing, and stronger private sector involvement. With the right support mechanisms, India can shift from residue burning to sustainable, value-driven residue utilization—benefiting both farmers and the environment.

PDF