Assessment of Cotton Uprooter

Abstract

Cotton is essential to India's economy, supporting millions and fuelling the textile industry. Spanning 117 lakh hectares, India dominates global cotton with 37.5% of the area and 26% of production, impacting 60 million livelihoods. However, post-harvest cotton plant residue management is challenging, often leading to environmentally harmful practices like applying harmful chemical & burning. This study discovers a sustainable solution using a tractor-operated mobile shredder at the Regional Agricultural Research Station in Nandyal, Andhra Pradesh. The shredder, mounted on a 45 HP tractor, efficiently processed cotton stalks, enhancing soil health by accumulation of nutrients and organic matter. The study measured physical parameters & operational parameters like moisture content, and operational efficiency, revealing that the shredder improved soil nutrient profiles, field efficiency, and reduced fuel consumption. Theoretical and effective field capacities were highest at 0.33 ha/hr and 0.28 ha/hr, respectively, at 1.65 km/hr. The approach mitigates environmental impact, conserves soil health, and offers a viable alternative to residue burning. This study underscores the potential for widespread adoption of advanced residue management technologies, promoting sustainable agriculture and benefiting farmers.