The advent of electric tractors is expected to significantly transform the lives of farmers due to their cost-effectiveness and is poised to usher in a new era within the country`s agricultural sector, according to Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik.
During a ceremony where the inaugural e-tractor was registered at the Thane Regional Transport Office (RTO), he further stated that purchasers would receive a subsidy of Rs 1.5 lakh under the Maharashtra State Electric Vehicle Policy 2025, in addition to interest-free loans provided through the state-owned Annasaheb Patil Economic Development Corporation, reported PTI.
“The operational costs are reduced by 60-70 per cent owing to the use of electricity instead of diesel. For example, the cost to plough one acre with diesel tractors ranges from Rs 1200 to Rs 1500, whereas this expense decreases to Rs 300 with an electric tractor. This development is expected to revolutionise the lives of farmers and herald a new chapter in the nation`s agricultural history,” Sarnaik affirmed.
He further expressed that “The Maharashtra government`s strategic objective is to ensure that by 2030, between 20 and 30 per cent of all vehicles on the roads are electric. These initiatives are aimed at ensuring long-term economic and environmental sustainability,” reported PTI.
The e-tractor registered at the Thane RTO on that day was manufactured by Autonxt Automation, a firm specialising in renewable energy technology.
New panel to be formed to resolve transporters` issues over traffic e-challans in Maharashtra: Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik
Earlier, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik had directed the formation of a new panel to address the issues faced by transporters due to the e-challan system, officials said on Thursday.
The committee will include officials from the Transport Department, police, and experts, along with representatives from transport associations, and is expected to submit its report within a month, they said.
The committee should also review speed limits, parking rules, and submit its findings in the report, Sarnaik said.
“The Maharashtra government is committed to resolving the issues faced by transporters related to the e-challan system. For this, the Transport Department has been directed to form a committee comprising relevant stakeholders, which must submit its report within one month,” Pratap Sarnaik said.
Speaking at a review meeting on e-challan reforms held at the state secretariat, Maharashtra Minister Sarnaik stated that there was a need for a system that is transparent, fair and supportive of transporters, without imposing unreasonable or harsh penalties.
(With PTI inputs)
