In a major step towards sustainable agricultural practices, the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research – Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-CMERI), Durgapur, launched its latest electric farming innovations, the E-Tractor (CSIR PRIMA ET11) and E-Tiller, during a special event held in Ludhiana on April 9, 2025.
The launch event was attended by several key dignitaries, including Prof. Adarsh Pal Vij, Chairman of the Punjab Pollution Control Board, who served as the Chief Guest, along with Dr. Nachiket Kotwaliwale, Director of ICAR-CIPHET, Ludhiana, and Dr. Manjeet Singh, Dean of the College of Agricultural Engineering at Punjab Agricultural University, who were both honoured as Guests of Honour. The event was hosted by Dr. Naresh Chandra Murmu, Director of CSIR-CMERI. The electric machines, originally flagged off by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh on National Science Day (February 28, 2025) in New Delhi, reached Ludhiana after stops in Jammu and Palampur.
The E-Tractor (CSIR PRIMA ET11) and E-Tiller are designed to offer low vibration, easy maintenance, and women-friendly ergonomics, delivering zero-emission solutions that help reduce air pollution and provide long-term savings for farmers.
With these innovations, CSIR-CMERI is advancing the electrification of agricultural machinery in line with the Government of India’s broader vision for green technology and renewable energy. These machines aim to serve as sustainable, cost-effective alternatives to traditional diesel-powered agricultural equipment.
At the Ludhiana event, Prof. Vij highlighted the importance of adopting electric farm machinery to reduce air pollution and support sustainable development. He also stressed the need for proper disposal of EV batteries and the role of awareness in waste management.
Dr. Murmu described the electric machines as a "significant leap" towards transforming traditional farming practices. He emphasized that these technologies are not just environmentally friendly but also designed to match the performance of conventional tractors. “Our goal is to provide reliable and cleaner alternatives to support Indian farmers,” he said.
The event also featured live demonstrations, interactive sessions with scientists, and engagement with stakeholders such as MSMEs and agri-tech companies. Farmers were invited to test the equipment in the field and share feedback, encouraging a two-way dialogue between technology developers and end users.
Experts believe that electric farm machinery could play a vital role in improving farm productivity while lowering the environmental impact. With Punjab being one of the most agriculturally active states in India, the successful demonstration has sparked keen interest among farmers and policymakers alike.
CSIR-CMERI is encouraging collaboration among farmers, manufacturers, and policymakers to ensure the wide adoption and commercialisation of these innovations.
