Patiala, Sept. 25 -- As Punjab braces for stubble-burning season, the debate surrounding its impact on Delhi's air quality has again gained prominence. With rising farm fires contributing to the region's pollution, Reena Gupta, chairperson of the Punjab Pollution Control Board, spoke to HT about the challenges the state faces, the misconceptions surrounding farmers and the way forward to address this ongoing issue.

Has there been any change in Punjab's approach this year to tackle stubble burning?

Yes, this year we have introduced the "Parali Protection Force", comprising a four-member team, headed by an agriculture development officer, in each of the state's 154 blocks. This is in addition to the 10,500 field staff already appointed ac...