Satellite Driven Insights of Long-Term Stubble Burning in the Indo-Gangetic Plains of India

Abstract Agriculture is vital to India's economy, especially in the Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP). The rise in mechanized harvesting has increased stubble accumulation, leading many farmers to burn stubble for quick, cost-effective field clearance. This practice is common in India due to inadequate residue management. Despite regulations and awareness efforts, stubble burning persists, highlighting the need for better monitoring and mitigation. Using data from NASA's Terra and Aqua satellites, this research estimates burnt areas in the IGP from 2001 to 2020, focusing on Bihar, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. The methodology includes mapping spatial and temporal patterns to identify hotspots and seasonal variations and providing monthly quantification of cropland burning to pinpoint peak fire activity. The study reveals that stubble burning, closely tied to the Rabi and Kharif crop cycles, peaks during harvest seasons, with April, May, October, and November showing the highest incidences, particularly in Punjab and Haryana. While there was a notable peak from 2013 to 2015, a decline in recent years suggests the influence of increased environmental awareness and regulatory measures. These findings highlight the urgent need for continued efforts to address the environmental and health impacts of stubble burning.