Sub Mission on Agriculture Mechanisation: Objective, Eligibility and Components

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Objective of Sub Mission on Agriculture Mechanisation
• Components of Sub Mission on Agriculture Mechanisation
• Subsidy Components Under Sub Mission on Agriculture Mechanisation
• Eligibility Criteria for Sub Mission on Agriculture Mechanisation
• Application Process for Sub Mission on Agriculture Mechanisation
• Benefits of Sub Mission on Agriculture Mechanisation
• Conclusion

Introduction

Mechanisation of Indian agriculture started with the Green Revolution in the latter half of 1960s. Today, farm mechanisation in India only stands at 40-45%, which is still very low compared to countries like China, Brazil, and USA (NABARD Study). To give a boost to the spread of farm mechanisation, the Indian government launched the Sub Mission on Agriculture Mechanisation (SMAM) in the year 2014-15. The aim is to promote the adoption of modern farming machinery and equipment.

The Scheme is a Central Sector Scheme wherein 100% funding will come from the Central Government. The Scheme is being implemented in all the states with an aim to increase the ratio of farm power to cultivable unit area up to 2.5 kW/hectare.

Objective of Sub Mission on Agriculture Mechanisation

The SMAM is a component of the National Mission on Agricultural Extension and Technology (NMAET). SMAM has several overarching objectives, including:

• Promoting Mechanisation: Increase the reach of farm mechanisation to marginal and small farmers and to the regions where the farm power availability is low.
• Offset Adverse Economies of Scale: Set up ‘Custom Hiring Centres’ to offset adverse economies of scale due to small landholdings and high cost of individual ownerships.
• Hubs for Farm Equipments: Creating hubs for high value and hi-tech farm equipments.
• Enable access to farm equipments: To provide financial aid and assistance to small and marginal farmers to let them buy farm machinery and implements.

Components of Sub Mission on Agriculture Mechanisation

SMAM consists of various components that work in tandem to achieve its objectives. These components encompass different aspects of agricultural mechanisation and support a wide range of farming activities. Here are the key components of SMAM:

• Promotion of Agricultural Mechanisation: It seeks to promote farm mechanisation through Training of farmers, Testing and Demonstration of agricultural machinery and equipment.
• Post Harvest Technology and Management (PHTM): It aims to popularize PHTM for primary processing, value addition, transportation, and crop by-product management through demonstrations, capacity building of farmers and end users. Provides financial assistance for establishing PHT units.
• Financial Assistance: It provides financial aid for
  1. Establishing PHT units and promoting ownership.
  2. Procurement of farm machinery and implement.
  3. Establish farm machinery banks for Custom Hirings.
  4. Establish hi-tech, high productive equipment hub for Custom Hiring.
  5. Promotion of farm mechanisation in selected villages.
  6. Promotion of mechanised operations/hectare carried out through Custom Hiring Centres.
  7. Promotion of farm machinery and equipment in North-Eastern Region.

Subsidy Components Under Sub Mission on Agriculture Mechanisation

The scheme provides subsidies to farmers to buy modern and gender friendly farm equipment. The subsidy rate under SMAM are as follows:

• For SC, ST, Small, Marginal, Women and Northeast Farmers: The rate of subsidy is 50% subject to a maximum ceiling on a particular component.
• For Other Farmers: The rate of subsidy is 40% subject to a maximum ceiling on a particular component.

Eligibility Criteria for Sub Mission on Agriculture Mechanisation

To benefit from the Sub Mission on Agriculture Mechanisation, farmers and farmer groups must meet specific eligibility criteria. Here are the key factors that determine eligibility:

1. Ownership of Land: Farmers who own agricultural land are eligible to apply for SMAM. Both individual farmers and farmer groups can participate.
2. Type of Farming: The scheme covers a wide range of agricultural activities, including crop cultivation, horticulture, and allied activities. Farmers involved in any of these activities can apply.
3. Farm Size: The specific eligibility criteria regarding the size of the farm may vary from state to state. Generally, small, and marginal farmers are prioritised, but larger farms may also be eligible, depending on the state's guidelines.
4. Age and Gender: SMAM aims to be inclusive and encourages the participation of farmers of all ages and genders. Women farmers are encouraged to take advantage of the scheme.

Application Process for Sub Mission on Agriculture Mechanisation

The application process for SMAM may vary from state to state, and it is essential to check with your respective state's agriculture department for the most accurate and up-to-date information. However, in general, the application process may involve the following steps:

1. Visit the Official Website: Visit the official website of your state's agriculture department or its authorised offices to inquire about the application process and available machinery.
2. Complete Necessary Documentation: Ensure you have all the required documents, such as land records, Aadhar card, and identity proof, ready for submission.
3. Consult with Agricultural Officials: Seek guidance from agricultural officials who can provide information on available machinery and the application process.
4. Apply for Financial Assistance: If you require financial assistance to purchase machinery, apply for the same through the prescribed application form.
5. Attend Training Programs: If available, attend training programs to gain knowledge about the operation and maintenance of the machinery.
6. Engage with Custom Hiring Centers: Explore the availability of machinery at Custom Hiring Centers and consider renting equipment when needed.

Benefits of Sub Mission on Agriculture Mechanisation

• The program offers financial support to farmers and other involved parties for acquiring drones and various agricultural machinery and equipment.
• Additionally, it includes training and capacity-building initiatives to educate farmers on the effective utilisation of drones and other advanced technologies.
• The incorporation of drone technology offers substantial advantages for farmers. These include increased efficiency, enhanced precision, cost reduction, high crop yields, and positive environmental impacts.

Conclusion

The Sub Mission on Agriculture Mechanisation (SMAM) is a vital initiative aimed at enhancing the efficiency and productivity of Indian agriculture. By promoting the use of modern machinery, providing training, and supporting the establishment of Custom Hiring Centers, SMAM empowers farmers to achieve better crop yields and reduce drudgery in farming activities. With its inclusive approach, SMAM encourages the participation of women in agriculture and promotes sustainable farming practices.