Maximizing Wheat Cultivation Profits with Zero Tillage Technology: Save ₹1500 Per Acre

Adopting the Zero Tillage technique for wheat cultivation can result in a savings of ₹1500 per acre. The Agriculture Department is encouraging the use of this technique to boost wheat productivity.

Maximizing Wheat Cultivation Profits with Zero Tillage Technology: Save ₹1500 Per Acre

Summary

• Zero Tillage Technique Benefits:

  • Implementing the Zero Tillage technique for wheat sowing can lead to a significant saving of ₹1500 per acre.
  • The Agriculture Department is actively promoting this technique to enhance wheat productivity.

• How Zero Tillage Works:

  • Zero Tillage involves using a seed drill to sow wheat without plowing the field.
  • After harvesting the previous crop, wheat seeds and fertilizer can be sown directly into the field without preparing the land.

• Advantages for Farmers:

  • Reduced seed quantity required for sowing.
  • Time and cost savings for farmers adopting this technique.

• Description of Zero Tillage Technology:

  • The Zero Tillage seed drill allows farmers to sow wheat without plowing the field.
  • Scientist Subhash Rawat from the Agriculture Science Center in Khandwa explains that this technique enables simultaneous sowing of wheat seeds and fertilizer.

• Recommended Practices:

  • First irrigation should be done 15-20 days after sowing with Zero Tillage.
  • Additional irrigation should be based on the moisture levels in the field.
  • Adequate moisture in the field is crucial for successful Zero Tillage sowing.

• Incentives for Farmers:

  • Certain wheat varieties, including HAI-8663 (Poshan), Pusa Tejas, Pusa Ujala, JW 3336, JW (MP) 3288, MP 3382, can be sown using Zero Tillage by December.
  • Subsidies of 50% for SC/ST category and 40% for general category farmers using Zero Tillage machines.
  • State governments are providing an additional ₹10,000 top-up.

• Overall Impact:

  • Farmers adopting Zero Tillage are experiencing increased efficiency, cost savings, and improved soil fertility.
  • The technology is contributing to higher wheat yields per hectare.

This report highlights the significant economic and agricultural benefits of adopting the Zero Tillage technique for wheat cultivation.

Maximizing Wheat Cultivation Profits with Zero Tillage Technology: Save ₹1500 Per Acre

By Meri Kheti, November 1, 2023

The winter season has arrived, and in many states, the sowing of wheat has commenced. In this article, we will discuss an excellent method for wheat cultivation called Zero Tillage Technology, which can save farmers ₹1500 per acre. The agricultural department is encouraging the adoption of this technique to enhance wheat productivity in fields.

Understanding Zero Tillage Technology

Zero Tillage involves using a seed drill to sow crops without plowing the field. In this technique, after harvesting the previous crop, wheat seeds and fertilizer can be sown directly into the field without preparing the land. This method is also known as direct seeding or zero tillage. Subhash Rawat, a scientist at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra Khargone, explains that the Zero Tillage machine allows farmers to sow wheat seeds and fertilizers simultaneously, saving time.

Advantages of Zero Tillage Technology

Farmers adopting Zero Tillage can enjoy two significant benefits. First, it reduces the quantity of seeds required, and second, it saves both time and money.

How Does Zero Tillage Work?

Zero Tillage is achieved by using a Zero Till Drill that enables farmers to sow crops without plowing the field. In this technique, the residues or stubble from the previous crop are left on the field, and seeds can be sown directly without preparing the land. This is why it is called direct seeding or Zero Tillage. Subhash Rawat, a scientist at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra Khargone, explains that the Zero Tillage machine allows farmers to sow wheat seeds and fertilizers simultaneously, saving time. The correct spacing between plants increases productivity.

Optimal Irrigation Timing

For wheat sown using Zero Tillage, the first irrigation should be done 15 to 20 days after sowing. Follow general advice for the first irrigation and provide additional irrigation as needed. Ensure that there is no waterlogging in the field. Many farmers are benefiting from this technique, and soil fertility is increasing.

Moisture is Essential

When sowing wheat, pay attention to moisture in the field. Use the Zero Tillage machine when there is sufficient moisture in the field. For rice crops, irrigate one week before sowing when there is low moisture. After harvesting rice, sow wheat when there is adequate moisture. This can be advantageous.

Subsidies for Farmers

Farmers using the Zero Tillage machine can receive subsidies from the government. SC/ST category farmers and women farmers are eligible for a 50% subsidy, while general category farmers can receive a 40% subsidy. Additionally, the state government is providing a top-up of ₹10,000.

Benefits of Using Zero Tillage Seed Drill for Wheat Cultivation

Traditional methods of preparing the field for wheat after rice harvesting incur costs of ₹1500-2000 per acre. Using the Zero Tillage seed drill reduces these costs significantly. With adequate moisture retention in the soil, the duration between rice harvest and wheat sowing can be shortened to 20-25 days.

The depth between wheat plants is 3-5 cm, and the light soil cover provides an optimal environment for seed germination. The applied fertilizer directly benefits the plant, resulting in a 10-15% water saving.

Choosing the Right Machine

Selecting the appropriate Zero Till Drill is crucial. The machine should have 9 to 11 tines spaced 18 to 20 cm apart for optimal results.

In conclusion, adopting Zero Tillage Technology can revolutionize wheat cultivation, offering substantial savings and increased productivity. Farmers are urged to explore this innovative technique to enhance their yields and financial returns. As the winter season progresses, incorporating Zero Tillage into wheat cultivation practices can pave the way for a more sustainable and lucrative future for farmers across the nation.