Jammu I March 7, 2025
A groundbreaking step towards sustainable agriculture was taken today as Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh flagged off the CSIR-developed e-tractor roadshow from Jammu, marking a significant milestone in India’s pursuit of eco-friendly and technology-driven farming solutions.
A Nationwide Journey Begins
The e-tractor, initially unveiled in Delhi, has embarked on an ambitious nationwide roadshow, starting from Jammu and Kashmir and heading towards Kerala. This journey aims to raise mass awareness among farmers, agricultural startups, and stakeholders about the potential of clean-energy innovations in revolutionising Indian agriculture. The roadshow, which will traverse the length of the country up to Kanyakumari, underscores the government’s commitment to promoting sustainable livelihoods and supporting agri-startups.
A Milestone in Green Agriculture
Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, emphasized the importance of this initiative during the flag-off ceremony at CSIR-IIIM in Jammu. “This e-tractor represents India’s journey towards environment-friendly, economic, and technology-driven ease in agriculture,” he stated. The event saw the participation of around 500 progressive farmers, entrepreneurs, and officials from the Agriculture and Horticulture Departments of the J&K government, highlighting its significance for the region and beyond.
CSIR’s Innovative Contribution
Developed by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) under its Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-CMERI), the e-tractor is designed to offer affordable, women-friendly, and sustainable farming solutions. Alongside the e-tractor, an e-tiller was also showcased, aligning with the government’s broader vision of promoting green energy and self-reliance in agriculture. Shri Arvind Singh Reen, Director of Agriculture, Jammu, praised the technologies, noting their potential to transform farming practices while reducing environmental impact.
Empowering Farmers and Startups
The roadshow is expected to generate significant interest among farmers, agri-startups, and policymakers as it progresses from Jammu to Kanyakumari. By demonstrating how clean-energy solutions can make agriculture more sustainable and cost-effective, CSIR aims to empower a larger segment of the farming community. The initiative also ties into broader schemes like the Mudra loan program, which has supported thousands of entrepreneurs, including women-led businesses in agriculture, as highlighted by Dr. Singh.
A Step Towards Sustainability
The e-tractor and e-tiller are not just technological advancements but symbols of a shift towards a greener future for Indian agriculture. With the event presided over by Dr. Jitendra Singh and attended by key figures like Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director of CSIR-IIIM, and Dr. Murmu, Director of CSIR-CMERI Durgapur, this roadshow sets the stage for a nationwide conversation on sustainability and innovation in farming.
What Lies Ahead
As the e-tractor makes its way across India, its journey will serve as a platform to engage stakeholders, gather feedback, and promote the adoption of eco-friendly technologies. This initiative, launched on March 6, 2025, is poised to leave a lasting impact on the agricultural landscape, bridging the gap between innovation and practical application for the benefit of farmers and the environment alike.