Types of mechanical rice transplanters
Transplanters are categorized by operator drive mode and row capacity to match field sizes.
Common models include:
- Walk-behind transplanters (4-row): Compact, lightweight machines powered by small petrol engines, ideal for small and fragmented terraced plots.
- Ride-on transplanters (6-row and 8-row): High-capacity diesel-powered machines equipped with power steering and hydraulic float control, suitable for large holdings and Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs).
- Row spacing: Standard fixed spacing of 30 cm between rows, with adjustable hill-to-hill distance (12 to 18 cm) to optimize tillering.
Mat nursery raising technique
Mechanical transplanting requires seedlings raised in specialized mat nurseries rather than traditional wet beds.
Essential nursery practices:
- Use plastic nursery seedling trays or plastic sheets spread over level ground with wooden frames.
- Prepare potting soil mixed with sieved soil, well-cured compost, and biofertilizers.
- Sow treated sprouted paddy seeds uniformly at 100 to 120 grams per tray.
- Seedlings are ready for mechanical planting in 14 to 18 days when they attain a height of 12 to 15 cm with 3 to 4 leaves.
Puddled field preparation and SMAM subsidy
Fields must be thoroughly puddled and perfectly leveled, allowing 24 to 48 hours for soil settling so that machines do not sink or bury delicate seedlings. Eligible farmers and cooperative societies can avail significant capital purchase subsidies under the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM) through agrimachinery.nic.in.
Official source
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Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM) ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the primary advantage of using a rice transplanter?
It ensures uniform plant spacing and optimal seedling density while drastically reducing transplanting labour requirements and field operational time.
How old should paddy seedlings be for mechanical transplanting?
Seedlings should be 14 to 18 days old, healthy, and about 12 to 15 cm tall with well-developed root mats.
Is government subsidy available for rice transplanters?
Yes, subsidies are provided under SMAM and state mechanization schemes accessible through agrimachinery.nic.in.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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