Electric tractor mela showcases clean, low-cost farm mechanisation in Karnataka

An Electric Tractor Mela and Krishi Samvaada was held at the College of Horticulture on the UHS campus in Bengaluru on December 4.

Organised by the Centre of Excellence for Farmer Producer Organisations (CoE FPO), in collaboration with NRDC, Villgro and Moonrider, the event drew over 200 farmers from more than 100 FPOs across Karnataka, marking a major push toward clean and affordable agricultural mechanisation.

Minister for Agriculture N. Cheluvarayaswamy inaugurated the mela and launched Moonrider’s electric tractors, calling it a historic moment for sustainable farming.

CoE FPO Director Seetharamu G.K. highlighted that electric tractors can reduce operational costs by up to 75%, especially when integrated with solar power.

A key feature was the launch of the NRDC’s report, Powering Agriculture, which claims electric tractors offer up to 80% lower operating costs, 50% lower ownership costs, and significant health benefits for farmers. 

Leaders from NRDC, Moonrider, and Villgro emphasized the role of innovation, ecosystems, and FPO-led Custom Hiring Centres in accelerating adoption. University and government representatives expressed confidence that such technologies will benefit farmers statewide.