Modern agro tools convenience farmers

Sudurpashim- With the availability of a power tiller, Kaluram Chaudhary from Dhangadhi sub metropolis in Kailali has found a significant support for his farming.

Previously reliant on oxen and buffaloes for plowing the fields, he has embraced this agricultural tool over the past two years. The use of modern agricultural equipment like tractors and power tillers has made land preparation easier, faster, and more convenient. “Besides we are now free from dependence on animals for agricultural activities,” he shared.

Subash Chaudhary of Godavari municipality has also experienced improvements in crop production and productivity since adoption of this tool. He not only utilizes this device in his lands but also provides tilling services to neighbors, making an additional income. Some farmers also use these tools for transporting goods when they are done with agricultural activities. Lalit Singh Rana, 74, from Dhangadhi sub metropolis-13, expressed that farmers with access to modern tools are “lucky,” as they do not have to work as hard as previous generations.

Agriculture is no more a backbreaking job, he added. In the area, farmers benefit from a 50% subsidy on power tillers and other agricultural tools provided by the provincial and local governments. The shift to the use of such tools has resulted in time savings and reduced labor needs.

The integration of modern tools and hybrid seeds has led to the increased crop yields, with production per bigha (6772.63 sq. metres) rising from eight to ten quintals in the past to up to 20 quintals today, according to the Agricultural Directorate. Subash addes nearly every household in his settlement now owns modern agricultural equipment, including threshing machines.

However, despite the conveniences these tools offer, farmers face numerous challenges, including changing climate patterns that threaten their crops. Uncommon cold waves, flooding, and droughts have become more frequent and intense, posing risks to cultivation, farmers complained. Similarly, farmers struggle to obtain chemical fertilizers during the planting season.

It may be noted that the Sudurpashim government has included a “Sufficiency in Agriculture, the Campaign of Province Government” in this fiscal year’s budget, ensuring subsidies for agricultural loans and electricity tariffs to help lower production costs and augment farmers’ income.