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Tractors & Farm Machinery

Harvester Machines: Types, Buy vs Rent and Subsidy Options

Harvesters cut and thresh crops in one pass, saving labour at the busiest time of the season. Because they are expensive and used only a few weeks a year, most farmers rent one, while buyers usually earn by custom hiring to others.

Last reviewed: 7 November 2026

Types

  • Self-propelled combine harvester: most common for wheat and paddy; tracked models suit wet paddy fields.
  • Tractor-mounted combine harvester: attaches to a tractor; lower cost than self-propelled.
  • Reaper and reaper-binder: cuts (and ties) the crop for later threshing; suits small farms.

Buy or rent?

  • Renting from a custom hiring centre (CHC) or contractor is usually cheaper for a single farm.
  • Buying makes sense mainly if you can offer custom hiring over a large area.
  • Compare on-road prices from authorised dealers in writing; KisanPe does not publish dealer prices.

Subsidy and finance

Harvesters and other machines are supported under the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM), especially for custom hiring centres and FPOs, and under state schemes. Rates vary by state and category; check the official portal before buying.

Official source

Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.

Farm machinery & SMAM portal (Govt of India) ↗

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Common questions

Is there a subsidy on combine harvesters?

Yes, under SMAM and state schemes, particularly for custom hiring centres and FPOs. Check agrimachinery.nic.in for your case.

Should I buy or rent a harvester?

For one farm, renting is usually cheaper; buying pays only with custom hiring over a large area.

Which harvester suits paddy?

Track-type combine harvesters work better in wet paddy fields.

General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.

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