Availability of adequate farm power is very crucial for timely farm operations for increasing production and productivity and handling the crop produce to reduce losses along with enhancing the economic status of the farmers. Thus, it is essential to estimate the farm power requirement so that future strategies may be formulated accordingly. Considering, this study was conducted for Godhra taluka of Panchmahal district by collecting data from secondary sources regarding land holding pattern, animal census, farm power implements used and area under different crops. Data was investigated and concluded that lower hp tractors are preferable in the region as more than 90% tractors were less than 50 hp while power tillers of more than 10 hp are popular. Diesel engines and electric pumps of less than 10 hp have more acceptances. The average land holding size of the taluka is decreasing day by day. It decreased from ha to ha during 1995-96 to 2005-06. Tractor drawn implements are increasing day by day while manual operated implements are decreasing. Available animal power is decreasing while mechanical power is increasing. Thus, the shift is towards use of mechanical power. In future demand of mini tractors or power tillers will be more as compared to other farm power sources due to continuous decrease in land holding size. | Status and prospects of farm power in Godhra Taluka of Panchmahal district, India
