Previous Year Question
With reference to ‘Delhi Government’s Bio-decomposer and Spray Programme’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
The Bio-decomposer solution is provided free of cost to farmers to help convert stubble into manure.
The Bio-decomposer solution is prepared using a mix of several fungi.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Only 2
Neither 1 nor 2
Both 1 and 2
Only 1
Correct Answer: C
Detailed Solution
Statement 1 is correct. The Delhi Government's Bio-Decomposer and Spray Programme was introduced to reduce air pollution caused by Stubble Burning. Under this programme, bio-decomposer solution is sprayed free of cost on farmers' fields to help convert paddy stubble remaining after harvesting into Organic Manure through decomposition within the field itself. According to NITI Aayog, the programme aims to make stubble management more accessible, reduce the need to burn agricultural residues, and improve Soil Fertility. The programme was implemented by the Agriculture Unit of the Development Department, Government of Delhi.
Statement 2 is also correct. The bio-decomposer solution is based on the Pusa Decomposer technology developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-IARI), Pusa, New Delhi. It is a Microbial Consortium consisting of seven fungal species. These include Aspergillus awamori, Phlebia radiata, Aspergillus nidulans, Aspergillus clavatus, Aspergillus flavus, Trichoderma viride, and Aspergillus fumigatus. These fungi produce Enzymes that help break down complex organic substances such as Cellulose, Lignin, and Pectin present in agricultural residues.
The Working Mechanism of the Bio-Decomposer involves cultivating the microbial consortium in a suitable medium to prepare a liquid solution. According to NITI Aayog's 2023 report, the mixture prepared from decomposer capsules undergoes Fermentation for approximately 8–10 days. The prepared solution is then sprayed on stubble remaining in agricultural fields. According to the report, under favourable conditions, this microbial solution can help convert stubble into manure within approximately 15–20 days. The actual decomposition rate depends on moisture, temperature, the nature of the stubble, and field conditions.
The primary objective of the programme is In-situ Crop Residue Management. Stubble burning releases Particulate Matter (PM), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Nitrogen Oxides (NOₓ), and other pollutants into the atmosphere. Incorporating stubble into the soil through biological decomposition can improve Soil Organic Carbon and facilitate Nutrient Recycling. This technology provides a biological alternative to stubble burning and contributes to Sustainable Agriculture and air pollution control.