Punjab, India, is experiencing an unprecedented surge in applications for subsidised tractors under the crop residue management (CRM) scheme, with 34,000 applications received this year compared to just 2,000 last year. This increase is attributed to the need for effective management of paddy residue during the kharif harvest season, which is crucial for addressing the severe air pollution caused by stubble burning. The CRM scheme, launched in 2018, aims to provide alternatives to stubble burning through subsidised machinery. The state already has approximately 5.5 lakh tractors, leading to concerns about over-tractorisation in agriculture. The demand for tractors has risen significantly after the inclusion of 50-horsepower tractors in the subsidy scheme, allowing farmers to receive subsidies of up to ₹9.6 lakh on tractors priced around ₹12 lakh. Agricultural experts warn that Punjab has more tractors than necessary, recommending a ratio of one tractor for every 25 acres of farmland. The Union Ministry of Agriculture has allocated ₹576 crore to Punjab for CRM activities for the 2026-27 period, marking the ninth consecutive year of central support to combat stubble burning. However, officials note that nearly 40% of CRM machines become redundant annually due to their limited operational lifespan.