Advancing Mechanization in Oilseed Crop Cultivation: A Comprehensive Review on Boosting India's Yellow Revolution Potential

Abstract

Mechanization has a prime role as a force multiplier to compensate labour shortages and for carrying out the operation on time resulting in higher productivity. Mechanization serves the dual purpose of increasing productivity on the land that is already there and achieving higher land productivity by utilizing machinery as a complementary input. This chapter examines the role of mechanization in enhancing oil seed production in India, aligned with the self-sufficiency goals of the Yellow Revolution. It addresses challenges such as low yields and dependence on imports, emphasizing how mechanization can boost productivity, profitability, and efficient resource utilization. The chapter discusses specific mechanized techniques for various stages of cultivation, including field preparation, sowing, weed management and harvesting, focusing on crops like groundnut, castor, sunflower, rapeseed, soybean, and sesame. The wider adoption of mechanization is a vital strategy to achieve sustainable growth in oil seed production and reduce import reliance. Farmers should consider sustainable practices and environmental impacts when adopting mechanization in oil seed crop production. A combination of various machines, technologies, and precision farming techniques is needed for full mechanization.