Named Code, it is a multi-application machine aimed at farmers at the bottom of the pyramid.
Code is not a single application machine, it’s a multi-purpose multi-application machine, said Hemant Sikkapresident of farm equipment business at M&M.
It can be used for a wide range of purposes, especially for horticulture farming, and eliminates the need for labour or animal power for inter-row operations.
It is seen as an alternative to the over 80,000 power tiller segment in the country, and has been adopted in a wide range of horticulture crops including flowers, pomegranates, dragon fruits, areca nuts, coconuts, and mangoes since its launch in November 2021.
The multipurpose machine, which looks like an all-terrain vehicle, costs about ₹3.5 lakh.
This is one of M&M’s many attempts to help farmers improve yield. Through global acquisitions, the company has introduced mechanised solutions for Indian farmers at Indian cost. It has developed a global centre of excellence, based on acquisitions and partnerships over the last seven years.
Mitsubishi Mahindra has developed light weight tractors and offers mechanised rice value chain solutions. From its Turkish acquisitions Erkunt and Hisarlar, M&M has developed a portfolio of harvesters and farm implements including rotators, cultivators, rotary tillers, bailers, disc harrows, and silage machines.
Currently, Swaraj’s factory in Mohali manufactures Code. The company may consider setting up a dedicated line if demand momentum continues.
“The strengths of the product which make it suitable for inter-row operations in horticulture farming also make it highly desirable in other row crops as well,” said Harish ChavanCEO of Swaraj Tractors.
According to the company, horticulture crops are more profitable in nature. The average value of horticulture crops increased by 11% during FY17-21 compared with a 6% rise in food grains. Code aims to participate in this growth story.