The Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CMERI) has introduced the CSIR Prima ET11, the country's first indigenous e-Tractor, in significant development for India's agricultural sector. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy, and Space, attended the ceremony.
During the event, Dr. Singh underscored the pivotal role that Agri Startups play in India's economy and advocated for the integration of new AI-driven technologies in agriculture. Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the increasing presence of startups in the agricultural domain, emphasizing their focus on specialized technologies such as e-Tractors, garbage recycling, drip irrigation, and genome-sequenced farming.
He introduced the concept of the "5 S’s" -Showcasing, Stakeholders, Startups, Synergizing, and Strategizing Industry linkage- as a formula for effective research and development in government-run scientific laboratories. Dr. Singh highlighted the importance of involving all five components to achieve optimal results and proposed close collaboration among stakeholders, including relevant Ministries and the industry.
Dr. Jitendra Singh further advocated for an integrated approach that involves early engagement with the industry. He emphasized that the Indian industry is eager to invest but often lacks direction, urging the creation of a dedicated cell to facilitate and encourage investments. He commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts in creating an enabling environment for the agriculture sector through measures like Ease of Doing Business.
The Minister acknowledged PM Modi's vision of the agriculture sector as a defining factor in India's journey to becoming a developed nation. He stated that the sector will not only contribute significantly to the economy but also offer substantial livelihood opportunities for the youth in the coming decades.
During the event, Dr. Singh released a book by CSIR-CIMAP and a compendium showcasing 75 technologies developed by CSIR. He expressed particular interest in CMERI's recycling vehicles and products, which align with the growing emphasis on sustainable practices.
As part of its ongoing initiatives, CSIR-CMERI will organize the "One Week One Lab" campaign from September 11 to 15, 2023. The campaign aims to showcase the institute's pioneering research, products, technologies, expertise, and facilities to various stakeholders, fostering greater collaboration and knowledge dissemination within the scientific community and industry.
