490,000 Farm Machinery Distributed with a Subsidy of Rs 830.28 Crore Since Inception

In a remarkable stride towards modernizing agriculture, the Agriculture Department of Bengal has introduced a pioneering concept known as 'Seedling Hubs.' These hubs have emerged as a game-changer in paddy cultivation by seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology with traditional farming practices. The 'Seedling Hubs' have not only streamlined the process of transplanting paddy seedlings but have also contributed to increased production and reduced costs.

The concept of 'Seedling Hubs' centres around the use of advanced transplanter machines, which facilitate the transplantation of paddy seedlings with remarkable efficiency. These machines are operated with trays of paddy seeds that are sown and cultivated into seedlings on mats. The mats can then be attached to the transplanter machine, which automatically sows the seedlings in neat rows. The cost of each machine, which hovers around Rs 3 to 3.20 lakh, is subsidized by the state Agriculture department to the extent of 50 per cent.

The impact of these transplanter machines has been monumental. A single machine can transplant paddy seedlings over an area of one bigha in just 20 minutes, drastically reducing the time and labour required for this crucial agricultural task. Moreover, the precision of the transplanter machine ensures consistent row distances, leading to higher production. With the cost of transplantation per bigha being less than Rs 1200, which is half that of manual transplanting, the 'Seedling Hubs' initiative has brought about a significant reduction in cultivation expenses.

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The advantages of 'Seedling Hubs' extend beyond individual farms. With one hub having the capacity to cover more than 100 acres in a single season, the initiative has led to the efficient utilization of land resources and increased productivity. The success of these transplanter machines has positioned them as a popular choice among farmers, making them one of the most sought-after farm machinery after Power Tillers and Combine Harvesters.

The state Agriculture department's commitment to modernizing agriculture is evident through its proactive measures. The department distributed a staggering 13,554 pieces of farm machinery under Farm Mechanization schemes during the 2022-23 period, amounting to a subsidy of approximately Rs 59.28 crore. Since its inception, the scheme has distributed a total of 4.9 lakh farm machinery pieces with a subsidy totalling Rs 830.28 crore. To support the seamless adoption of modern agricultural practices, 77 custom hiring centres (CHCs) have been established at block levels up to the year 2022-23.

The integration of modern farm machinery, such as combine harvesters, threshers, rotavators, power tillers, and innovative transplanter machines, has not only reduced the cost of cultivation but has also minimized crop losses due to natural disasters. Timely and efficient harvesting of standing crops has become possible, ensuring that farmers are better equipped to tackle challenges posed by the elements.

The 'Seedling Hubs' initiative, backed by the state Agriculture department's unwavering support, has ushered in a new era of agricultural efficiency and productivity in Bengal. As technology continues to intertwine with traditional practices, the farmers of Bengal are poised for a brighter and more prosperous future in agriculture.

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