Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), having succeeded in mechanising inter-cultural operations in cotton, is all set to try it in pulses as well.

M Gunasekaran, Professor, Plant Breeding and Genetics, TNAU pointed out that mechanisation of field operations was becoming inevitable due to shortage of farm hands.

Highlighting the striking features of the newly developed farm implements, the professor said they were cost-effective, and time-saving. “The tools can be manufactured in India and it will not cost more than ₹25,000-₹30,000. Further, each of the tools can be adjusted and fitted to requirement.”

The important component is the main frame he said. “The shoe attachment can be fitted on to the main frame for line marking; an attachment with tynes is used for forming ridges and furrows and row spacing – adjusted as per requirement. The implement includes different sizes of blades for different row spacing and these blades can be attached between the tynes,” he explained.

Apart from removing weeds, these blades help level the soil and retain the water holding capacity of the soil.

Field operation can be repeated 2-3 times once every fortnight. Further, in cotton, key operations such as top dressing and earthing can be done by fixing an adjustable ridger, he said and pointed out that an area of about two acres could be covered in 60 minutes.

That is not all. The farmer can use the attachments for inter-crop cultivation by fixing it on to a tractor. The implement is now being used by cotton farmers in a big way in this region.

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