Sat Dec 06 04:27:11 UTC 2025: Summary:
An Electric Tractor Mela and Krishi Samvaada was held at the College of Horticulture on the UHS campus in Bengaluru on December 4, 2025. The event, organized by the Centre of Excellence for Farmer Producer Organisations (CoE FPO), in collaboration with NRDC, Villgro and Moonrider, drew over 200 farmers from over 100 FPOs across Karnataka. Minister for Agriculture N. Cheluvarayaswamy inaugurated the mela and launched Moonrider’s electric tractors, highlighting the potential for sustainable farming. An NRDC report, “Powering Agriculture,” claims electric tractors offer significant cost savings and health benefits for farmers. The event emphasized the role of innovation, ecosystems, and FPO-led Custom Hiring Centres in promoting adoption.
News Article:
Karnataka Farmers Gear Up for Electric Future at Tractor Mela
Bengaluru, December 6, 2025 – Over 200 farmers from across Karnataka gathered in Bengaluru on December 4th for the Electric Tractor Mela and Krishi Samvaada, signaling a major shift towards sustainable and affordable agricultural practices. The event, organized by the Centre of Excellence for Farmer Producer Organisations (CoE FPO) in partnership with NRDC, Villgro, and Moonrider, showcased the potential of electric tractors to revolutionize farming in the region.
The mela was inaugurated by Minister for Agriculture N. Cheluvarayaswamy, who launched Moonrider’s electric tractor line, calling it a “historic moment” for sustainable farming. CoE FPO Director Seetharamu G.K. emphasized the significant cost savings, with electric tractors potentially reducing operational costs by up to 75%, especially when integrated with solar power.
Adding to the excitement, the NRDC launched its “Powering Agriculture” report, which details the considerable economic and health benefits of electric tractors. According to the report, farmers can expect up to 80% lower operating costs and 50% lower ownership costs compared to traditional diesel tractors.
Leaders from NRDC, Moonrider, and Villgro underscored the importance of innovation, supportive ecosystems, and Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO)-led Custom Hiring Centres in accelerating the adoption of electric tractors. University and government representatives expressed optimism that these technologies will have a positive impact on farmers across the state. This Mela and Krishi Samvaada mark a crucial step towards a cleaner, more cost-effective, and healthier future for agriculture in Karnataka.
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