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CSIR-CMERI develops affordable, compact tractors for small farmers, enhancing productivity and reducing operational costs effectively.
In a significant development aimed at supporting marginal and small farmers in India, CSIR-CMERI has successfully engineered a new type of tractor. This innovation promises to enhance agricultural productivity while remaining cost-effective and easy to use.
Small and marginal farmers, constituting over 80% of cultivators in India, often face challenges with traditional farming methods like bullock-driven ploughs. These methods incur high operational and maintenance costs, leading to low returns. Power tillers, an alternative, are difficult to operate, while regular tractors are typically too large and expensive for small-scale farming.
To tackle these issues, CSIR-CMERI has developed a compact tractor specifically designed for small farms. The new tractor features a 9 horsepower diesel engine with 8 forward and 2 reverse speeds, equipped to handle various farming tasks efficiently. Weighing approximately 450kg, it boasts a wheelbase of 1200mm, ground clearance of 255mm, and a turning radius of 1.75m, making it agile and suitable for small plots.
This innovation promises to revolutionize farming for small landholders by speeding up operations that previously took days with bullock carts, now completed in hours. Additionally, it significantly reduces capital and maintenance costs, thereby improving overall profitability for farmers.
Recognizing the potential impact, CSIR-CMERI plans to license the technology to local manufacturers for large-scale production. An MSME based in Ranchi has already expressed interest in setting up a manufacturing plant. They aim to supply these tractors through state government tenders, ensuring accessibility at subsidized rates to farmers across different regions.
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With its focus on affordability, maneuverability, and enhanced productivity, the CSIR-CMERI tractor marks a crucial step towards empowering small farmers in India. By addressing their specific needs and challenges, this innovation promises to uplift rural economies and improve livelihoods significantly.