Crop harvesting technologies in agriculture in India: A review of recent advancements and challenges

Abstract

Crop harvesting is a critical agricultural operation in India, significantly impacting productivity, cost, and post-harvest losses. This paper reviews the current landscape of crop harvesting technologies in India, drawing primarily from recent research focused on addressing the limitations of manual methods and the affordability challenges of large-scale mechanization for small and medium-scale farmers. It examines the advancements in developing small-scale, cost-effective, and potentially multi-crop harvesting solutions for crops like cotton, soybean, ginger, turmeric, potato, onion, and carrot. The paper synthesizes findings on various harvesting mechanisms, including cutting blades, digging units, and conveying systems, and discusses the importance of ergonomic design and operational efficiency. While tractor-operated harvesters are effective, their cost and size limit their usability for small-scale farmers. This review compiles recent technological advancements, designs, and performance evaluations of root crop harvesting machines. The paper highlights the work of various researchers, providing valuable insights for those interested in developing efficient, cost-effective, and compact harvesting equipment tailored to the needs of Indian agriculture. Finally, it concludes by highlighting the ongoing research directions and the need for further innovation to ensure accessible and efficient harvesting technologies for the diverse agricultural sector in India.