India, April 19 -- Madhya Pradesh has reported the highest number of wheat residue burning cases in India during the first fortnight of April, prompting the state government to take action - imposing fines worth Rs.25 lakh and registering over 50 FIRs against farmers involved in stubble burning.

According to a report by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, more than 15,830 cases were reported in Madhya Pradesh from April 1 to April 18 this year, while Punjab recorded 14 cases, Haryana had 47 cases, and Uttar Pradesh registered 3,607 cases.

The Pollution Control Board and the state's district administration have issued prohibitory orders and initiated action under Section 19(5) of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act,...