Training on Utilization of Agricultural Machinery and Labor Saving Devices in Agriculture

Udaipur, The Directorate of Extension Education at Maharana Pratap Agriculture and Technology University, Udaipur, organized a one-day training program on the use of agricultural machinery and labor-saving devices in small and marginal farmer families. The training was conducted at the Agricultural Science Center, Chittorgarh, as part of a project sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, New Delhi.

Addressing the farmers, Dr. R. A. Kaushik, Director of Extension Education and Project Incharge, emphasized the need for intensive and precision farming practices due to the increasing population. He highlighted the importance of utilizing modern agricultural machinery for efficient management of advanced seeds, fertilizers, and timely completion of agricultural activities, thereby minimizing human labor in farming. Based on research, it was mentioned that the use of agricultural machinery can reduce labor and time in farming activities by 20-30%. Additionally, there can be a reduction of approximately 15-20% in expenses incurred on fertilizers, seeds, and chemicals.

The main speaker of the training, Dr. Hemu Rathore, a scientific entrepreneur, shed light on the use of labor-saving devices by women farmers. Practical training was provided on advanced tools such as seed drillers, maize shelling machines, groundnut shelling machines, transplanters, vegetable picking bags, solar heaters, and finger-operated vegetable cutters. Safety measures for using these devices were also ensured.

Dr. Latika Vyas and Acharya discussed the significant contribution of women in agriculture, stating that 90% of farming activities, from cultivation to storage, are carried out by women. To further empower women in agriculture, training programs are being organized.

Dr. R. L. Solanki, Senior Scientist and Head, Agricultural Science Center, Chittorgarh, imparted technical knowledge on various methods for maintaining soil fertility to women farmers. During the training, inputs were also provided by program officers like Adarsh Sharma, Dr. Kusum Sharma, Dr. Deepa Indoria, Abhilasha, Madan Giri, and Rajesh Vishnoi.