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Punjab mandates 20 % straw pellet use in brick kilns to curb pollution and boost rural economy
Babushahi Bureau
Malerkotla (Punjab), June 17, 2025: In a groundbreaking move to reduce air pollution and promote sustainable practices, the Punjab Government has announced that all brick kilns in the state must now use 20% straw pellets as fuel, replacing a portion of conventional coal.
This policy, initiated under the directives of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, is being enforced by the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) to tackle the persistent issue of stubble burning.
Gunveet Sethi, Action Officer of the PPCB, said that this directive is aimed at ensuring eco-friendly disposal of paddy straw, turning a major environmental challenge into a viable economic opportunity.
He emphasized that pellet production units not only offer a cleaner fuel alternative but also provide employment and entrepreneurial avenues for the youth.
To encourage the setup of industrial units for straw pellet manufacturing, the government is offering generous financial assistance:
- ₹28 lakh for a 1 TPH non-torrefied pellet plant
- ₹70 lakh for a 5 TPH non-torrefied pellet plant
- ₹28 lakh for a 1 TPH torrefied pellet plant
- ₹1.40 crore for a 5 TPH torrefied pellet plant
These subsidies are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with an overall budget provision of ₹50 crore to support pellet unit installations.
The Punjab State Council for Science & Technology (PSCST), in collaboration with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), is facilitating the initiative. For detailed guidelines, eligibility, and assistance, interested stakeholders can visit:
Officials noted that Punjab’s annual straw pellet demand is estimated at 10 lakh tonnes, highlighting a significant market opportunity for entrepreneurs and MSMEs.
This policy aligns with Punjab’s broader goals of promoting green industry, preventing air pollution, and transforming agricultural residue into economic value.