Prospects of light weight power tiller in the northeastern region of India Ghadge S.V., Scinetist (FMP), Satapathy K.K., Principal Scientist (SWCE), Singh R.K.P., Scinetist (FMP), Agrawal K.N., Scinetist (FMP), Sahay C.S., Scinetist (FMP) ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umroi Road, Umiam-793 103, Meghalaya. Abstract Feedback on the use of light weight power tiller supplied through Assam Agro-Industries Development Corporation (AAIDC) was collected in order to identify its problems and prospects in the north Eastern Hill region of India. The AAIDC introduced 3 hp Kalinga design of lightweight power tiller in the region under the name ‘AAI-3000 Power Plough’ in 1996. The information was collected using structured proforma through personal interview technique from 41 users, which included individuals, government agencies andco-operatives. Most of the units (65%) were supplied on subsidy through various agencies like ITDB, DRDA, WPT&BC, BAC, etc. while the rest (35%) units were sold directly through branch of fices of the AAIDC. The machine are being used mainly under for ploughing and puddling operations in paddy and rarely for other operations like interculture, pumping, transportation, etc. The average annual use of the equipment was found to be 400 hours and average hiring rate of Rs. 150/bigha (approx. Rs. 1000/ha). It has been observed that power tiller operators require rest after 1–2 hours of operation because of fatigue due to hand transmitted vibrations. Major problems quoted by there spondents included engine related problems of starting trouble, stoppage due to early clogging of carburettor because of impure kerosene supply, more oil consumption, etc. and control related problems of lack of steering & clutch mechanisms for turning and stopping, and so on. Suggestions for improvement included increase in engine powerfrom 3hp to about 5hp, bigger ground wheels, attachments for transplanting, harvesting and threshing paddy, etc. It also appeared from the general discussions that training and demonstration of the machine would help instil confidence in users, establishment of service centres at the block level would avoid delay in repairs, bank loans to unemployed youths would encourage custom hiring, etc. Being a low-priced, compact and lightweight machine, it is convenient for small farmers with low purchasingpower and hilly areas. Top |