Main types of combine harvesters
- Self-propelled combine harvesters: Dedicated high-horsepower machines featuring integrated diesel engines, large cutter bars, and high-capacity grain tanks, ideal for large commercial tracts and custom hiring.
- Tractor-mounted combine harvesters: Implements mounted on standard 50+ HP agricultural tractors, offering a cost-effective harvesting solution for medium farms.
- Track-type combine harvesters: Fitted with rubber crawler tracks instead of rubber tyres, specifically engineered to operate in wet, boggy paddy fields without sinking.
Key components and straw management (SMS)
The machine uses a front reel and cutter bar to cut standing crop, an auger to feed material into the threshing cylinder, concaves to dislodge grain, and vibrating sieves with blowers to clean grain before elevator transfer to the holding tank. Modern combines are mandated to incorporate Super Straw Management Systems (SMS) to chop and uniformly spread loose crop residue, enabling zero-till wheat sowing without stubble burning.
Government subsidy and Custom Hiring Centres
Combine harvesters can be acquired with capital subsidies under the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM) and the Crop Residue Management (CRM) scheme. Most small and marginal farmers access combine harvesting on an hourly rental basis through village-level Custom Hiring Centres.
Official source
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Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What operations does a combine harvester perform?
It performs cutting (reaping), threshing (separating grain), separating straw, and winnowing (cleaning grain) simultaneously in one pass.
What is a Super Straw Management System (SMS) on a combine?
SMS is a rear attachment that chops crop straw and spreads it evenly across the field to prevent crop stubble burning and facilitate zero-tillage.
Can individual farmers receive subsidies for combine harvesters?
Yes, eligible farmers, cooperatives, and rural entrepreneurs can apply for machinery subsidies via the central SMAM portal (agrimachinery.nic.in).
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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