On November 8, 2026, the festival of Diwali was marked by a significant environmental concern in Punjab, as the state reported a staggering 1,152 new farm fires. This surge represents the highest single-day count for the current season, pushing Punjab's cumulative tally to 4,459 incidents, up from 3,307 recorded just the day before.
The sharp increase in stubble burning comes despite concerted efforts by government authorities, including advisories, enforcement drives, and monetary penalties aimed at curbing the practice. Crop residue burning is a major contributor to severe air pollution across northern India, particularly during the post-monsoon period.
Stark Increase Compared to Previous Years
While a direct comparison to last year's Diwali figures requires context, the scale of this year's incidents is notable. On Diwali last year (October 20), Punjab registered only 45 farm fires. However, by that date in 2025, only 32 percent of the total paddy-sown area had been harvested, whereas this year, nearly 92 percent was harvested by November 8. Nevertheless, the cumulative figure for November 8, 2025, stood at 3,622 incidents, significantly lower than the current 4,459.
The annual farm-fire monitoring period in Punjab commences on September 15, aligning roughly two weeks before paddy procurement begins on October 1, and continues through the end of November.
District-Wise Impact and Enforcement Actions
Among Punjab's districts, Tarn Taran has recorded the highest number of farm fires this season, with 654 incidents to date. On November 8, Sangrur district reported the highest daily count, with 194 fresh fires, bringing its seasonal total to 488. Other districts also saw significant new incidents:
- Ferozepur: 157 new incidents (cumulative 592)
- Bathinda: 132 new incidents (cumulative 406)
- Patiala: 92 new incidents (cumulative 288)
- Barnala: 91 new incidents
- Ludhiana: 71 new incidents
Authorities have intensified enforcement measures against farmers found burning paddy residue. Official data indicates that 884 First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for disobedience of public servant orders. Additionally, 1,017 red entries have been marked in land revenue records against identified stubble burners.
Financial Penalties and Regulatory Directives
Environmental compensation totaling over Rs 62 lakh has been imposed in 1,228 cases, with more than Rs 32 lakh already recovered. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has expressed serious concern over the high number of farm fires. In a meeting with senior bureaucrats and police officers from 12 districts, the CAQM directed officials to intensify monitoring and enforcement efforts, emphasizing greater accountability in preventing stubble burning.