Gadkari Urges Tractor Makers to Adopt Alternative Fuel Technology

Key Highlights

• Gadkari urges tractor makers to switch from diesel to alternative fuels.
• New TREM-V emission norms may raise tractor costs significantly.
• Emission norms are deferred if manufacturers adopt clean fuel technologies.
• India targets net-zero emissions by 2070 with alternative energy solutions.
• The government promotes CNG, methanol blending, EVs, and green hydrogen for clean energy.

Nitin Gadkari, India’s Minister of Road, Transport, and Highways, has called on tractor manufacturers to adopt alternative fuel technologies to reduce dependency on diesel and cut emissions. He emphasized that the government could delay new emission norms if manufacturers actively work towards using clean energy options.

Speaking at the Millionaire Farmer of India Awards 2024 organized by Krishi Jagran, Gadkari highlighted the challenges posed by upcoming emission norms and the potential cost impact on farmers. He said, “We introduced Euro 6 standards for cars and buses, and similar standards were planned for tractors. However, manufacturers warned that these norms could raise tractor costs by ₹1 lakh to ₹1.15 lakh.”

To address these concerns, Gadkari proposed a solution: defer the norms if manufacturers adopt fuels like CNG, electricity, ethanol, or flex-fuel engines. He praised companies like Mahindra, Massey Ferguson, and Sonalika for already implementing these changes.

Also Read: Gadkari Encourages Tractor Manufacturers to Switch to Alternative Fuels

Current Emission Standards for Tractors

• TREM-IV norms: For tractors above 50 HP.
• TREM-IIIA norms: For tractors below 50 HP (majority of the market).

The new TREM-V norms, set to take effect in April 2026, aim to reduce emissions further. However, manufacturers warn that these standards may significantly increase tractor prices and servicing costs. Specialized workshops might be needed, impacting small farmers relying on local mechanics.

Also Read: Agrovision 2024 Showcases CNG and Biofuel Tractors, Promoting Sustainable Farming

India’s Shift Towards Cleaner Energy

India, the world’s third-largest importer of crude oil and a major greenhouse gas emitter aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070. The government is promoting several clean energy initiatives to meet this goal:

• Alternative fuels: Focus on blending 15% methanol with diesel for commercial vehicles.
• Electric vehicles: Targeting 30% EV penetration by 2030, led by two-wheelers and three-wheelers.
• Compressed Biogas (CBG): Mandating blending in CNG starting FY 2025-26, with a 5% blending target by 2028-29.
• Green hydrogen and LNG: Promoted for long-haul commercial vehicles.

Cost vs. Clean Energy

While alternative fuels and stricter norms aim to lower emissions, concerns about rising costs remain. Gadkari stressed that balancing affordability and environmental goals is crucial, especially in agriculture. He urged manufacturers to accelerate innovation and work towards sustainable and cost-effective solutions.

With the government’s support and industry cooperation, India could lead the way in transforming its tractor market while aligning with its broader clean energy goals.

Also Read: Important Tips for Buying a Second-Hand Tractor: Avoid Big Losses

CMV360 Says

India's push for alternative fuels in tractors is crucial for reducing emissions and achieving clean energy goals. While new emission norms may raise costs, Gadkari's call for innovative solutions offers a balanced path forward. Collaborative efforts between the government and manufacturers can ensure sustainable, affordable technologies, benefiting farmers and supporting India's net-zero vision by 2070.