CSIR-CMERI Showcases E-Tractor and E-Tiller in Ludhiana, Accelerating Green Farm Innovations
These innovations are designed to revolutionise traditional agricultural practices by integrating eco-friendly, cost-effective, and high-performance electric vehicle (EV) technology.
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Marking a major step towards sustainable agriculture, CSIR-CMERI (Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute), Durgapur, unveiled its newly developed E-Tractor and E-Tiller in Ludhiana on Tuesday. The electric farming machines aim to empower small and marginal farmers with cleaner, low-maintenance, and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional diesel-powered tractors.
The event, hosted at the CSIR-CMERI Centre of Excellence for Farm Machinery (CoEFM), saw participation from scientists, policymakers, farmers, and industry leaders. Prof. Adarsh Pal Vij, Chairman, Punjab Pollution Control Board, attended as Chief Guest, with ICAR-CIPHET Director Dr. Nachiket Kotwaliwale and PAU Dean Dr. Manjeet Singh as Guests of Honour. CSIR-CMERI Director Dr. Naresh Chandra Murmu led the proceedings.
Originally flagged off by Union Science & Technology Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh on National Science Day (28 February 2025) in New Delhi, the Ludhiana leg follows successful stops in Jammu and Palampur as part of CSIR-CMERI’s national demo campaign.
The E-Tractor (PRIMA ET11) and E-Tiller are designed for zero emissions, low vibrations, and ease of use—especially for women farmers. With women-friendly ergonomics and reduced operational costs, the machines align with India’s push for green tech and self-reliance in agriculture.
“The E-Tractor and E-Tiller mark a leap forward in agri-tech by offering sustainable, high-performance solutions,” said Dr. Murmu. “These machines are not just innovations; they are a movement towards a cleaner, more inclusive farm future.”
Prof. Vij stressed the environmental and social responsibility of adopting electric vehicles. “Electric farm machinery is key to reducing air pollution, but we must also be cautious about battery waste and ensure proper disposal,” he said.
Live field demonstrations, farmer feedback sessions, and stakeholder interactions were among the highlights of the event, which also drew participation from MSMEs and agri-tech manufacturers looking to explore technology transfer opportunities.
Calling the machines a promising leap, Dr. Kotwaliwale encouraged farmer participation in shaping future innovations. Dr. Manjeet Singh underlined the need to pair technological growth with awareness and training.
The Ludhiana showcase reaffirmed Punjab’s role as a frontrunner in adopting smart agricultural solutions. With 11 city stops, the ongoing national demo journey will culminate in Kanyakumari, covering India’s agricultural heartlands and promoting a shift to clean energy-driven farming.
