Groundbreaking Quad Bike Offers Hope To Small Farmers

Groundbreaking Quad Bike Offers Hope To Small Farmers Farmland Industries, an urban-based startup, is breaking new ground in Indian agriculture by introducing the first 4-WD Quad Bike designed for small and marginal farmers. “In 2015, I completed my engineering studies, and I questioned why I should look at big companies for jobs when I could build a company of my own,” says Farmland Industries founder Vishwanath K S. “I’d already created three-wheeler bikes for the army and films that were covered in the media, so I made up my mind to build a Quad Bike for agricultural purposes and small farmers who were unable to afford expensive tractors.” Developed by Vishwanath, the innovation is designed to ease labor shortages by making fertilizer and manure applications more convenient. The 7-hp Quad Bike features a detachable trolley that can carry about 1,100 lbs. of material. Optional equipment also includes a shredder, digger and sprayer.  One of the most impressive aspects of the bike is its user-friendly design. The accessories are intuitive, so even unskilled labor can operate them, reducing reliance on specialists and making the machine practical for time-sensitive farm operations. Vishwanath explains that bringing the product to market was not without challenges. “At first, I borrowed money from my friends and parents,” he says. “Later, I started taking money from customers as an advance, then manufactured and sold the bikes.” Unlike bulky tractors and tillers that struggle to maneuver in tight spaces, the small bike is agile enough to reach the farthest corners of the plantation and perform all necessary tasks. “It handles essential farm tasks at a much lower cost than traditional tractors,” explains Vishwanath, highlighting the Quad Bike’s efficiency and affordability. Over the past four years, Farmland Industries has sold more than 100 units to small farmers across the state, with approximately 40 vehicles sold last year. Vishwanath plans to establish production units in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, a move that will not only scale up manufacturing but also create much-needed employment opportunities for local communities. Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Farmland Industries (ph +91 9481211092; farmlandindustries007@gmail.com; www.farmlandindustries.in).

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