Uttar Pradesh Sees 62% Jump in Tractor Ownership Since 2016: Government Subsidies, Modern Farming Tools, and Income Growth Drive Record Rise in Tractor Numbers

Key Highlights:

• Tractor count grew from 88,000 to 1.42 lakh in 8 years.

• Rise linked to increased farmer income and mechanization.

• 50% subsidy on tractor equipment boosts usage.

• Tractor sales in India may cross 10 lakh units this year.

• UP govt modernizing farming with education and irrigation.

In a major boost to farm mechanization, Uttar Pradesh has witnessed a 62% increase in tractor ownership over the past eight years. According to a statement released by the state government on Wednesday, the number of tractors has grown from 88,000 in 2016-17 to 1,42,200 in 2024-25.

This impressive growth reflects a significant rise in farmers income and their growing dependence on mechanized tools to enhance productivity and reduce labour costs.

Tractors Now Used for Multiple Farming Activities

A state government spokesperson explained that tractors are no longer limited to just ploughing fields. Today, they are also widely used for:

• Land levelling

• Spraying fertilizers and pesticides

• Making bunds

• Sowing seeds with seed drills

• Planting and digging potatoes

• Managing crop residues

This diversified usage of tractors is helping farmers work faster and more efficiently throughout the crop cycle.

50% Subsidy Boosts Tractor and Equipment Use

To encourage mechanization, the UP government offers a 50% subsidy on every tractor-operated agricultural equipment. These machines reduce dependency on manual labour and support tasks such as:

• Land preparation

• Sowing

• Harvesting

• Threshing

As a result, farmer incomes are expected to grow, and tractor ownership is likely to increase even further in the coming years.

Tractor Sales Booming Across India

The trend is not limited to Uttar Pradesh. On a national level, tractor sales in India are set to reach a new record in the 2024-25 financial year. An estimated 10 lakh tractors are expected to be sold, surpassing the previous record of 9,39,713 units sold in 2023-24.

State Government Initiatives Driving Agricultural Growth

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s governmentis focused on turning Uttar Pradesh into the “food basket of the country.” The state is utilizing its rich agro-climatic regions, fertile Indo-Gangetic belts, abundant water resources, and large farming workforce to transform ag​riculture.

Key steps include:

• Promoting modern farming techniques through Krishi Vigyan Kendras and the Million Farmers School program.

• Spreading awareness about innovative farming practices.

• Completing major irrigation projects like the Bansagar Project, National Saryu Canal Project, and Arjun Sahayak Project to improve water availability.

Transparent Procurement and Crop Support

The government has also ensured transparent procurement systems for wheat and paddy at Minimum Support Prices (MSP). Farmers now receive timely payments, and more crops like millets have been brought under MSP coverage.

Sugarcane Farmers and Rural Reforms

Around 50 lakh sugarcane farmers in the state have benefited from:

• Modernization and construction of new sugar mills

• Extended crushing seasons

• Faster payments

Other support includes the proper implementation of the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme and the timely supply of seeds and fertilizers.

Record Growth in Crop Production

Thanks to these combined efforts, Uttar Pradesh has seen record growth in the production of pulses and oilseeds. The state's agricultural sector is becoming more modern, productive, and farmer-friendly.

Also Read: Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan to Begin on May 29 in 723 Districts Across India

CMV360 Says

The 62% rise in tractor ownership in Uttar Pradesh is a sign of the state’s agricultural transformation. With continued focus on modern tools, government support, and farmer education, UP is on the path to becoming a leading hub for sustainable and productive farming in India.