A two-day workshop on the topic of pollution control through crop residue management was organized by the Agriculture Department and Basic Science Department of Shri Ram College under the aegis of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Chittora. The workshop was inaugurated by Dr. Yashpal Singh, Agricultural Scientist, KVK, Chittora, Principal Dr. Prerna Mittal, Director Ashok Kumar, Dean Academic Dr. Vineet Sharma, Dr. Pooja Tomar, Head of Basic Science Department, and Head of Agriculture Department, Dr. Mohd. Naeem.

The main speakers at this event were Dr. Reena and Dr. Soumya from KVK, Chittora. More than 300 students participated in this workshop. On the first day of the program, a poster and essay competition related to the topic was held. 150 students participated in the competition through posters and essays. The winning students were awarded first, second, and third prizes.

Dr. Yashpal Singh explained that crop residue management involves carefully handling and utilizing the plant material (straw, stalks, leaves) left behind after harvesting crops such as rice, wheat, and maize. Proper management may include incorporating residues into the soil, mulching, burning, or using residues for compost and bioenergy. It prevents air pollution caused by crop burning, as burning crop residues releases large amounts of particulate matter, carbon monoxide, methane, and other pollutants into the atmosphere, leading to smog, respiratory problems, and climate change. Managing residues by incorporating them into the soil or using them for other purposes reduces or eliminates open burning. It reduces soil and water pollution; proper residue management reduces the runoff of agrochemicals and nutrients, preventing water pollution. Incorporating residues improves soil structure, reduces soil erosion, and conserves water. It reduces greenhouse gas emissions, as burning it releases greenhouse gases like CO2 and methane. Other management methods reduce these emissions.

Dr. Reena explained that it increases soil fertility, and the residues act as organic matter, increasing soil nutrients and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers, which can cause pollution. Crop residue management methods include in-situ incorporation and tilling the residues into the soil for natural decomposition.

Mulching involves using the residues as mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Composting involves converting the residues into compost to improve soil quality. It also includes using residues for bioenergy production and biofuel production. Other methods include promoting awareness and policies against open burning of residues.

Dr. Soumya explained that pollution control through crop residue management involves adopting methods to reduce environmental pollution caused by crop residues left after harvesting. If these residues are not managed properly, they can contribute to air pollution, water degradation, and soil degradation. Here are some specific methods of crop residue management for pollution control. Crop residue management is crucial for pollution control. It requires technological approaches, policy support, and educating farmers to promote sustainable agriculture and environmental health.

At the end of the program, Dr. Prerna Mittal thanked all the guests and students. A pledge was also taken to refrain from burning crop residues.

The program was successfully conducted by Ritu Pundir, Dr. Rahul Arya, and Dr. Rishabh Bhardwaj.

During the program, faculty members from the Agriculture Department and Basic Science Department, including Vivek, Sachin, Harshita, Milan Maan, Rama Median, Mahak Naaz, and Ayushi Garg, were present.