Jammu: In a major push towards sustainable and technology-driven agriculture, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh flagged off the CSIR-developed e-Tractor Roadshow from Jammu today. The roadshow, which will travel across the country before concluding in Kanyakumari, aims to raise awareness about eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions in farming.
The e-tractor, initially launched in Delhi, is an innovation by CSIR-Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CMERI), Durgapur. During the event, Dr. Singh also inaugurated the e-Tiller, another breakthrough in mechanized farming developed by CSIR-CMERI. These advancements are expected to significantly reduce the cost of farming operations while promoting clean energy solutions.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the transformative potential of electric tractors in Indian agriculture. He pointed out that conventional farming heavily depends on expensive fossil fuels, whereas the e-tractor provides a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative. “This e-tractor is not just an advanced technological intervention but a step towards ensuring affordable and sustainable farming solutions. It reflects our commitment to integrating innovation with agriculture, benefiting both farmers and agri-startups,” he said.
The Minister highlighted that the initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of green energy adoption and self-reliance in agriculture. The roadshow will allow farmers across different regions to witness firsthand the benefits of this revolutionary technology and its potential to reduce operational costs while boosting productivity.
He further elaborated on the government’s focus on agricultural entrepreneurship, stating that policies such as the Bio-E3 policy (Biotechnology for Environment, Economy, and Employment) are ensuring that scientific advancements are translated into economic opportunities for farmers. “Through initiatives like Mudra loans, rural youth and women entrepreneurs are being empowered to adopt modern agri-technologies,” he added.
During the event, Dr. Jitendra Singh also inaugurated the Agro-Soil Research Laboratory at CSIR-IIIM Chatha Farm, where scientists and researchers will focus on soil testing, agrotechnology development, and plant testing. This laboratory aims to support farmers with scientific insights that can enhance soil health and crop yields.
As the e-tractor roadshow moves across the country, it is expected to generate significant interest among farmers, agri-startups, and policymakers. The Minister noted that India is already witnessing an agricultural transformation with innovations such as drone-assisted farming, soil health cards, and high-value crops like lavender, which are creating new income avenues for farmers.
Dr. Singh concluded by reiterating that the roadshow is not just a demonstration but an invitation for farmers to be part of India’s agricultural revolution. “By embracing clean energy solutions, our farmers can enhance productivity while protecting the environment. This initiative is a significant step towards sustainable farming and a future-ready India,” he said.
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