Agrovision 2024 Showcases CNG, Biofuel Tractors; Industry Awaits Rollout

Nagpur: The 15th edition of Agrovision 2024 is taking place in Nagpur from November 22 to 25, showcasing innovative farming technologies. This would also include new tractors and farm equipment running on CNG and biofuel, a significant effort toward sustainable farming. Companies like Mahindra and TAFE have developed these and are awaiting permission under the CMVR. However, they can sell their product only after CNG filling stations and biofuel filling stations are established, especially in rural locations.

Gov. to Support Alternative Fuel for Farmers

Mr Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, emphasized the importance of these tractors in reducing pollution and benefiting farmers. Gadkari highlighted that Indian Oil Corporation will set up 400 CNG filling stations. These stations will help lower fuel costs for farmers. The Union Minister also stated that biofuel would lead to savings of at least Rs. 1 lakh per farmer annually. His company, CIAN Agro, is also working on setting up a plant to produce CNG.

Challenges in Commercial Launch Due to Infrastructure Needs

The development of alternative fuel tractors aligns with India’s efforts to meet Euro VI emission norms. In the recent past, TAFE and Mahindra, among other tractor manufacturers, have been working to make biofuel and CNG tractors. However, these producers face a significant challenge in commercially bringing these tractors to the market. This is because there are hardly any rural filling stations for CNG and biofuels in rural areas. Currently, these filling stations are mostly found in urban locations. This makes it difficult to sell these tractors in villages.

TR Kesavan, Group President of TAFE, expressed hope that the infrastructure for CNG and biofuel outlets would soon be developed in rural areas. He stated that once the necessary outlets are in place, the tractors could be launched in the respective regions. This move is part of a broader initiative to support farmers and reduce vehicle emissions. Gadkari’s firm, previously known as Purti Group, is also investing in CNG production to help meet the demand for alternative fuel.

Impact of Alternative Fuel Tractors on Agriculture and Emissions

Gadkari’s push for alternative fuel tractors is not only aimed at reducing emissions but also at helping farmers become suppliers for biofuel feedstock. He reiterated that the government would ensure that sufficient infrastructure for CNG and biofuel stations is established. This would support the commercial use of these tractors. The development of CNG and biofuel-powered farming equipment is expected to transform the agricultural sector.  Farming would become much more environmentally friendly and cheaper for farmers. 

Tractor Junction also Offer a Monthly Subscription of Tractor Sales (Wholesale, Retail, Statewise, Districtwise, HPwise) Report. Please Contact us for the detailed report.

Subscribe our Telegram Channel for Industry Updates- https://t.me/TJUNC
Follow us for Latest Tractor Industry Updates-
LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/TJLinkedIN
Facebook - https://bit.ly/TJFacebok