Utilization pattern of draught animal power by different categories of farmers and their suggestions regarding efficient use of draught animals

Abstract

The present study was conducted in Beed district of Marathwada Region of Maharashtra. The results obtained from this investigation found that in the study area operation like, ploughing completed by the farmers using different energy sources like own bullock-pairs, tractor and bullock and tractor combine energy source was highest by tractor combine energy that is 73.75 per cent. Harrowing operation completed by the farmers using different energy sources, highest utilization of animal power by own bullock-pairs 43.33 per cent. Animal draught power was mostly used for light agricultural operation i.e. intercultural operation followed by transportation, harrowing, ploughing and least use for drilling which is considered by them as time consuming. Highest bullock pair average annual working days was recorded in marginal farmers i.e. 76.21±6.98 days. Major suggestions reported by farmers are implements should be framed in such a way that with minimum changes it should be useful for many farm operations.