Need of optimum size tractors for replanting in tea gardens of north-east India

A study was carried out to determine measures for effective use of tractors during 2009–11 on tea plantations located in Lakhimpur and Sonitpur districts of Assam in north-east India. Use of all tractors under study was maximum for transportation. Higher size (45 hp) tractors could perform all field practices, while medium size (35 hp) tractors could not perform P.T.O. shaft operated field practices. Monetary benefit from use of higher size tractors for uprooting old bushes and pit digging was 26.79 and 29.09%, respectively, as compared with same cost of these operations, carried out by engaging labourers. Range of uprooted bushes and dug pits by tractor was 440 to 502 and 203 to 211, respectively. Whereas it was 310 to 360 and 127 to 131, when these operations were manually performed. Higher size tractors were utilized maximum for drawbar work (37.69%), followed by that of P. T. O. work (33.62%) and three point linkage (28.69%). All three power outlets of this category of tractors needed attention at time of their manufacture. Medium size (35 hp) tractors could not be utilized for P. T. O. work in absence of matching implements. As compared with use of medium size tractors, higher size tractors were found saving time, which was available for covering more area under replanting. All plantations under study needed contribution of higher size tractor by owing or hiring, for replanting, in view of problems of labour shortage. Enhanced use of tractors was found increasing area under replanting and due to that demand of manure, compost, vermicompost, etc, increased. It provided an opportunity of cattle rearing to colony workers. Increased quantity of biomass through systematic uprooting of bushes and shade trees by tractor, created entrepreneurship in briquette manufacturing. Briquette was found a smokeless, health and environment friendly clean fuel for woman workers. While loose burning of biomass as fire wood was found harmful for health.