“iHub AWaDH IIT Ropar unveils eco-friendly and cost-effective in-house Stubble Removing Machine for sustainable agriculture”
Ropar/Chandigarh, 16 April : In a groundbreaking initiative to tackle the challenges of stubble management and environmental sustainability, iHub – AWaDH (Agriculture and Water Technology Development Hub), IIT Ropar, under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India has introduced an innovative in- house technology Stubble Removing Machine. Developed by Dr. Prabir Sarkar, one of AWaDH’s domain coordinators and Faculty at IIT Ropar, with a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 9, the Stubble Removing Machine is fully developed, tested, and ready for large-scale deployment, offering farmers an innovative and practical solution to the long-standing issue of stubble management. This state-of-the-art technology offers an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and efficient alternative to traditional stubble disposal methods, significantly reducing the need for stubble burning.
This tractor-mounted system is designed to help farmers efficiently manage stubble residue, ensuring both agricultural productivity and environmental conservation. It chops stubble down to just a few centimeters from the ground and automatically loads it into a trolley, significantly reducing labor requirements and fuel costs—two major concerns for farmers. This versatile machine is suitable for removing both rice and wheat stubble and is capable of covering large fields while requiring only a single operator. Priced at ₹5–6 lakhs, the Stubble Removing Machine provides an affordable, efficient, and eco-friendly alternative for farmers, promoting sustainable agricultural practices. With its advanced technology and high-performance design, this machine is set to revolutionize stubble management and enhance farm productivity.
Key Features of the Stubble Removing Machine:
● Eco-Friendly and Sustainable: Eliminates the need for stubble burning, reducing air pollution and preserving soil nutrients.
● Efficient Stubble Cutting & Collection: Cuts stubble down to a few centimeters and automatically loads it into a trolley, minimizing labor and fuel costs.
● Tractor-Mounted & Versatile: Compatible with 40-60 HP tractors and suitable for both rice and wheat stubble removal across large fields.
● Energy-Efficient & Cost-Effective: Operates at 1-1.5 liters of fuel per acre, reducing operational expenses.
● Robust & Durable: Built with a heavy-duty mild steel frame (2600 kg) for long-lasting performance with low maintenance requirements.
Distinctive Selling Points:
● Eco-Friendly Solution: Manages stubble without burning, reducing air pollution and preserving soil nutrients while supporting sustainable farming.
● Cost-Effective & Fuel-Efficient: Cuts fuel and labor costs, using only 1–1.5 liters of diesel per acre, ensuring faster operations and higher productivity.
● Durable & Low-Maintenance: Built with a heavy-duty mild steel frame for long-lasting performance, easy blade replacement, and minimal upkeep.
● User-Friendly & Automated: Requires a single operator with a hydraulic lifting system for efficient operation and transport.
● High-Capacity & Versatile: Covers 1 acre per hour, efficiently removing both rice and wheat stubble.
The Stubble Removing Machine offers a transformative impact on both farmers and the environment by addressing key agricultural challenges. It efficiently clears crop residue, ensuring that fields are quickly prepared for the next planting cycle. By retaining organic matter, the machine helps improve soil fertility and water retention, preventing the long-term degradation caused by traditional stubble burning methods. Additionally, by eliminating the need for burning, it significantly reduces air pollution, aligning with government sustainability initiatives for cleaner and healthier farming practices. Beyond environmental benefits, the machine also enhances farmers’ profitability by minimizing fuel consumption and labor costs, making agricultural operations more efficient and cost-effective.
