JAMMU: Director Agriculture Jammu, S. Arvinder Singh Reen, inaugurated the first-of-its-kind Paddy Transplanter 6 Rows Self Propelled issued under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) to a Farm Machinery Bank in Panchayat Khor, Zone Kirpind subdivision R.S Pura.
This initiative aims to increase Farm Mechanization Power from the present 1.75 KW to 2.5 KW in the next 2 to 3 years in the Jammu and Kashmir UT, showcasing a pioneering effort aimed at transforming agricultural practices in the region.
The Paddy Transplanter offers several key advantages to enhance paddy cultivation practices. It significantly enhances cost efficiency by reducing the rising costs of cultivation and labour requirements, thereby addressing the current labour crisis in the sector. Additionally, the transplanter excels in rapid nursery creation, capable of establishing a mat-type nursery covering 1 acre within just an hour. Its ability to ensure precise plant spacing and line sowing according to recommended agricultural practices further enhances productivity and yields in the field. Notably, this advanced machinery is the first of its kind in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, offering unparalleled efficiency and productivity benefits to farmers.
Director expressed optimism for the future of agriculture in the region, stating, “The introduction of the Paddy Transplanter marks a significant step towards modernizing our agricultural practices and ensuring better yields for our farmers. This initiative aligns with our commitment to supporting farmers with innovative technologies that enhance efficiency and profitability.”
The inauguration ceremony concluded with a demonstration of the Paddy Transplanter’s capabilities, highlighting its role in advancing agricultural mechanization and sustainable farming practices.
SDAO R.S Pura, Surinder Kumar Gupta, Agriculture Extension Officer, Junior Agriculture Extension Officer and Agriculture Extension Assistant were also present at the occasion.