The Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-CMERI) recently unveiled a compact 100% pure electric tractor designed and constructed with indigenous components and technologies, named CSIR PRIMA ET11. This initiative is a significant step towards encouraging Ease of Doing Business and promoting trust-based governance in India, particularly benefiting the small and marginal farmers. This move also simplifies the process of testing tractors for performance evaluation.
Noteworthy Features of CSIR PRIMA ET11
The introduction of CSIR PRIMA ET11 serves as a testament to India’s commitment to sustainable agriculture. With its user-friendly technology, it offers convenience and ease of use, especially for women. Incorporated with a port called V2L (vehicle to load), the tractor’s battery power can be put to use for secondary applications like pumping and irrigation when not in operation.
Significance of CSIR PRIMA ET11 in Sustainable Agriculture
Traditionally, tractors are diesel-operated, contributing significantly to environmental pollution. It’s estimated that they consume approximately 7.4% of India’s annual diesel usage and account for about 60% of total agricultural fuel usage. Their PM2.5 and NOx emissions are predicted to surge 4-5 times the current levels within the next two decades. Hence, transitioning towards electrification in this sector becomes vital to align with the global carbon footprint reduction strategy. Therefore, the development of electric tractors like CSIR PRIMA ET11 serves as a substantial stride towards achieving climate-related goals.
Historical Contributions of CSIR-CMERI
Established in 1958, CSIR-CMERI located in Durgapur, West Bengal, has a noteworthy history in the design and development of tractors of various capacities and ranges. From developing the SWARAJ Tractor in 1965, the 35hp Sonalika tractor in 2000, to a small diesel tractor of 12hp Krishishakti in 2009, CSIR CMERI has indeed served the demand of small and marginal farmers in India.
Simplification in Testing Procedures for Tractor
The Government has now allowed tractor manufacturers to participate in the subsidy scheme based on CMVR/Conformity of Production (COP) certificates. Additionally, manufacturers need to provide a self-declaration affirming that the proposed tractor for inclusion under the subsidy aligns with the benchmark specifications set by the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare. The mandatory tests to be followed include Drawbar Performance Test, PTO Performance and Hydraulic Performance Test, and Brake Performance Test. These tests will be conducted at Central Farm Machinery Training and Testing Institute ( CFMTTI), Mahindra Research Valley (MRV), or any other Government-authorised institute or at their facilities.
The Impact of Economic Reforms on India
India’s economic reforms, initiated in 1991, have led to some major occurrences. The primary focus of these reforms was the liberalisation of the economy, simplification of regulations, and widening the role of the private sector. These measures resulted in a significant increase in India’s share in world trade and FDI inflows but despite this positive growth, the contribution of agriculture to the Indian economy gradually declined. Nonetheless, these reforms marked the era of capital mobility in the country, resulting in foreign capital influx in the form of FDI and FPI.
Integrated Farming System (IFS) and Agricultural Production
The Integrated Farming System (IFS) plays a pivotal role in sustaining agricultural production. Necessary farming improvement practices incorporated within the IFS can contribute significantly towards sustainable agricultural growth and increase overall productivity. This farming system provides integrated resources, ensures income round the year, recycles rural waste, and increases employment opportunities, thereby contributing positively to the farming community and the economy.
