The burning of stubble intentionally ignites the thatch of straw that remains after the harvest of cereals, such as paddy, wheat, etc. This practice was widespread until the 2000s in Nepal, when governments increasingly restricted its use.

Harmful effects in environment

Loss of Nutrients
Smoke Pollution
Damage to electrical and electronic equipment due to floating wires of conductive waste

Risk of uncontrollable fires.

There is a perception that burning of thatch contributes to atmospheric CO2. However, carbon dioxide releases are only slightly higher than natural decomposition.