In a significant stride towards promoting sustainable and energy-efficient solutions in agriculture, the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research – Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute, Durgapur, West Bengal (CSIR-CMERI), unveiled its E-Tractor and E-Tiller technology at Ludhiana today, 9th April 2025. This initiative marks a crucial milestone in India’s clean energy movement, focusing on transforming agriculture through innovation and sustainability.

Prof. Adarsh Pal Vij, Chairman, Punjab Pollution Control Board, graced the event as the Chief Guest, along with Dr. Nachiket Kotwaliwale, Director, ICAR-CIPHET, Ludhiana, and Dr. Manjeet Singh, Dean, College of Agricultural Engineering, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, as the Guests of Honour. Dr. Naresh Chandra Murmu, Director, CSIR-CMERI, hosted the event.

Originally flagged off by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Hon’ble Union Minister of Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Govt. of India, on 28^th February 2025 (National Science Day) from Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, the Ludhiana stop via Jammu and Palampur marks a major highlight at the CSIR – CMERI Centre of Excellence for Farm Machinery (CSIR – CMERI CoEFM), reaffirming India's commitment to green energy and sustainable agriculture.

Speaking during the event, Hon'ble Chief Guest Prof. Adarsh Pal Vij, Chairman, Punjab Pollution Control Board, said, “I am happy to be part of this agricultural revolution that is opening new avenues for farmers to connect with industry and adopt modern, sustainable practices. As we look to the future, embracing sustainability is essential, and electric vehicles mark a significant step in reducing air pollution and transforming agricultural operations. With technological advancements happening every day, it becomes our collective responsibility to ensure their optimum use. Unscientific disposal of batteries must be avoided, and proper knowledge is crucial for safe waste management. While our scientists are working on effective disposal methods, collaborative action from all stakeholders is equally important to ensure long-term environmental well-being.”

At the core of the event, are the E-Tractor, CSIR PRIMA ET11, and E-Tiller, cutting-edge electric farming solutions developed by CSIR-CMERI. Designed for small and marginal farmers, the developed technologies feature low vibration, easy maintenance, women-friendly ergonomics, and zero emissions, delivering long-term economic and environmental benefits.

These innovations are designed to revolutionise traditional agricultural practices by integrating eco-friendly, cost-effective, and high-performance electric vehicle (EV) technology. This aligns with the Government of India’s broader vision of achieving self-reliance in green technologies and advancing renewable energy goals.

Other than the technology showcase, the event included:

• Interactive Sessions with CSIR-CMERI scientists, agricultural experts, and government dignitaries
• Live demonstrations of the E-Tractor and E-Tiller, showcasing a green and clean revolution in smart and sustainable agriculture; Field trial by the Farmers; interaction and feedback
• Stakeholder Engagement with MSMEs, manufacturers, and agri-tech companies to promote technology transfer and commercialisation

Speaking at the Ludhiana event, Dr. Naresh Chandra Murmu, Director, CSIR-CMERI, emphasised the transformative potential of these electric machines, presenting them as viable alternatives to traditional diesel-powered tractors. He said, “The E-Tractor and E-Tiller represent a significant leap towards sustainable agriculture and the broader electrification of conventional farm technologies. These electric machines are not only environmentally friendly but are also engineered to match the capabilities of traditional diesel-powered tractors. Our aim is not just to showcase innovation but to drive a shift toward cleaner, cost-effective, and high-performance solutions that support farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices across the country.”

During his address, Dr. Nachiket Kotwaliwale, Director, ICAR-CIPHET, Ludhiana, stated, “The technologies developed by CSIR-CMERI hold great promise for transforming Indian agriculture. We encourage feedback from farmers and industry to help our scientists develop innovations that are practical and impactful, as they are committed to supporting and working with you every step of the way.”

Speaking during the event, Dr. Manjeet Singh, Dean, College of Agricultural Engineering, Punjab Agricultural Engineering, Ludhiana, said, “Innovations like electric farm machinery are reshaping the future of agriculture with cleaner, smarter solutions. It is essential that we pair these advancements with awareness and responsibility to ensure their long-term impact and sustainability.”

Given Punjab’s status as a leading agricultural state in the country, this technology demonstration highlighted the importance of sustainable innovations in enhancing farm productivity while minimising environmental impact. The event generated significant interest among farmers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.

CSIR-CMERI invites farmers, manufacturers, policymakers, and stakeholders to actively participate in this transformative journey. With clean energy and innovation at the forefront, India is on the path to creating a more sustainable, efficient, and prosperous agricultural ecosystem.

About CSIR-CMERI Nationwide Technology Demonstration Schedule

The technology demonstration spans the length of the country, demonstrating the capabilities of CSIR-CMERI’s electric farming machinery. The campaign commenced with a grand inauguration at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, on 28th February 2025, features a series of interactive sessions and live demonstrations across 11 key cities in India namely Jammu, Palampur, Ludhiana, Roorkee, Lucknow, Bhopal, Nagpur, Hyderabad, Mysore, Karaikudi, and Thiruvananthapuram. It will culminate in Kanyakumari, completing its journey across India’s diverse agricultural heartlands.

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PIB Jalandhar

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