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India releases first-ever standard for electric tractors, sets testing framework for clean farm mechanisation
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Tuesday, 30 December, 2025, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Abhitash Singh, Mumbai
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In a significant step towards sustainable agriculture and cleaner farm mechanisation, India has released its first Indian Standard for electric agricultural tractors, creating a dedicated testing and evaluation framework for the emerging segment. The standard has been issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), marking a milestone in the country’s transition from diesel-driven farm equipment to electric alternatives.
The newly notified standard lays down uniform test codes to assess the performance, safety, and reliability of electric tractors, a category that has so far operated without a dedicated national benchmark. Industry experts say the move will bring much-needed clarity for manufacturers, testing agencies and farmers, while also accelerating innovation in electric farm machinery.
According to officials, the standard specifies testing protocols for key performance parameters such as power output, drawbar performance, power take-off (PTO), braking efficiency, vibration levels, and inspection of critical components and assemblies. It also establishes standardised terminology and general technical requirements to ensure consistency across models and manufacturers.
Electric tractors, which operate on battery-based systems instead of conventional internal combustion engines, are increasingly being viewed as a viable solution to reduce fuel costs, lower emissions and minimise noise pollution in agricultural operations. However, the absence of a formal testing framework had earlier posed challenges in evaluating their field performance and durability.
The new standard has been developed through consultations with stakeholders including agricultural research bodies, testing institutions, tractor manufacturers and government departments. While the standard is currently voluntary, it is expected to serve as a reference point for future regulatory and certification requirements.
Industry stakeholders believe the introduction of a national standard will boost farmer confidence, encourage domestic manufacturing and support policy initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions in agriculture. With India’s tractor market being among the largest globally, the standard is also expected to strengthen the country’s position in developing next-generation, sustainable farm equipment.
The move aligns with India’s broader push for clean energy adoption and technology-driven growth in the agriculture sector, setting the foundation for wider deployment of electric tractors in the coming years.
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