Pesticide Application Equipment in Soybean Growing Region of Madhya Pradesh - Ergonomic, Economic and Energy Aspects

Techno-economic survey was conducted through a questionnaire to study the present status of use of plant protection equipment in Bhopal and Indore regions of Madhya Pradesh. Knapsack sprayers were owned by majority of the small and medium fanners while power sprayers were owned by big and some medium fanners. The operation of knapsack sprayer caused fatigue in back, shoulder and arms of the operator. Farmers desired replacement in view of this problem. Use of weedicide applicator was very common in soybean crop since mechanical weeding was not possible due to unfavourable climate and soil conditions. The cost of operation of knapsack sprayer, twin knapsack sprayer, mist blower and tractor operated weedicide applicator were Rs. 179, Rs. 92.44, Rs.107.06 and Rs. 246.25 per ha respectively while the energy requirement for these equipment were 273, 257, 297 and 465 MJ/ha.