Chandigarh, October 26, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
With paddy harvesting underway and concerns over stubble burning mounting, farmers across Punjab can now access a dedicated telephone helpline for practical guidance on managing crop residue without setting fields on fire.
The Sanjha Mittar Farmer Support Centre, an initiative associated with Clean Air Punjab, AirCare Centre and Saanjh Punjab, has launched the helpline at +91 79737 27514. The service will operate from 9 am to 5 pm.
The initiative aims to help farmers overcome one of the key challenges during the harvesting season: finding timely, affordable and effective alternatives to burning paddy straw.
Through direct interaction, farmers will receive guidance on modern crop residue management machinery, including its availability and appropriate use. The service will also raise awareness about the harmful effects of stubble burning on soil fertility, human health and the environment, while encouraging sustainable farming practices.
Sanam, Director of State Climate Action at Asar, said the initiative had been shaped by farmers’ feedback gathered during consultations.
“Sanjha Mittar is built entirely around what farmers told us during our listening exercises. When technology reflects real farmer preferences, the impact becomes immediate and meaningful. This platform brings timely, science-based support directly to their phones, strengthening both decision-making and climate resilience across Punjab,” Sanam said.
In a related development, the panchayats of five villages in Fatehgarh Sahib district were honoured at a district-level farmers’ camp for ensuring that no stubble burning took place in their respective villages.
The villages recognised for promoting environmentally responsible farming practices were Dhirpur, Wazidpur, Badla, Rurki and Baronga Jer.
The helpline assumes particular significance as farmers face a narrow window between harvesting paddy and sowing wheat. Delays in obtaining guidance or accessing suitable machinery can make crop residue management difficult during this crucial period.
By establishing direct communication with farmers, Sanjha Mittar aims to bridge the information gap, address practical concerns and encourage a shift towards sustainable alternatives at the grassroots level.
The telephone service supplements Sanjha Mittar’s existing WhatsApp-based digital assistant, developed by Clean Air Punjab and Agri2Power following consultations with more than 2,000 farmers.
The initiative seeks to ensure that farmers have access to timely information, suitable machinery options and practical support before considering stubble burning.
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