Farm mechanization in India is steadily evolving from being tractor-centric to encompassing a broader range of machines and technologies aimed at improving agricultural productivity and efficiency. Traditionally, mechanization was equated with the use of tractors, which replaced bullocks in tillage, sowing, and transport operations. The tractor gave Indian farmers a reliable source of power, allowing them to perform heavier and faster field tasks.
A typical pair of bullocks generates just about 1 horsepower (hp), while most tractors sold in India today are in the 41–50 hp range. With nearly 9 lakh units sold annually, tractors form the backbone of India’s farm power economy, contributing over ₹60,000 crore in value terms. Yet, the real shift lies in the rising demand for tractor-mounted and self-propelled farm machinery, driven by the need to overcome agricultural labor shortages and improve overall farm economics.
The use of machines such as rotavators, combine harvesters, rice transplanters, and sprayers is growing rapidly. These machines significantly reduce operational time, cut labor costs, and help in maintaining consistency in farming activities. A rotavator, for instance, performs both primary and secondary tillage in a single pass, loosening soil up to 8–12 inches deep. This not only saves time and fuel but also prepares the seedbed more effectively than conventional ploughing.
Combine harvesters offer similar benefits. Manual harvesting of wheat on one acre typically requires five to seven laborers and an entire day, with additional effort for threshing. In contrast, a combine can harvest and thresh the crop in just 30 minutes, at a lower cost. Similar trends are visible in rice transplantation, especially in the southern states, where mechanization is replacing labor-intensive manual operations.
India’s agri machinery market—excluding tractors—is now estimated to be above ₹10,000 crore, with nearly 60% of it belonging to the organized sector. This segment is growing faster than the tractor segment in volume terms, indicating a gradual broadening of the mechanization base. Manufacturers like Mahindra & Mahindra have recognized this opportunity and are investing in farm equipment plants with dedicated capacities for harvesters, transplanters, and rotavators.
The challenge lies in expanding mechanization beyond large landowners to include small and marginal farmers who make up over 86% of India’s farming population. Despite their significant role in food production, these farmers often lack the capital and access to modern equipment. Many still rely on basic tools or rental tractors. Mechanization among smallholders remains limited to land preparation and irrigation, with minimal penetration in sowing, harvesting, and crop protection.
For small-scale farms, individual ownership of machinery is rarely economical. Therefore, rental-based delivery models—such as Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and Farm Machinery Banks—have become essential. These shared-service platforms allow farmers to access equipment without incurring heavy investment. At the same time, they help ensure better utilisation rates and promote standardised practices.
Government initiatives like the Sub Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM), now merged with the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY), play a critical role in supporting mechanization through subsidies, training hubs, and demonstration centers. In addition, Krishi Vigyan Kendras, civil society organizations, and private manufacturers provide training to farmers on the use and maintenance of machinery.
A large part of India’s agricultural future depends on sustainable, resource-efficient practices. Mechanization is central to this vision. It enables timely sowing and harvesting, supports multiple cropping, reduces water consumption, and improves resilience to climate variability. Modern machines powered by diesel and electricity must gradually shift to cleaner energy sources as part of broader sustainability goals.
Source: Indian Express Read The Article
PSR Analysis. In conclusion, India’s mechanization strategy must be inclusive and scalable, focusing on smallholder access, machine affordability, rural infrastructure, and energy-efficient innovations. With a strong foundation laid by the tractor revolution, the next phase requires expanding mechanization’s reach and effectiveness across all farm sizes to build a more productive and secure agricultural ecosystem. PSR
Aditya Kondejkar is Research Analyst – South Asia Operations for Power Systems Research
