Mechanization possibilities of maize cultivation in hilly regions of Jammu and Kashmir State of India.

This paper describes the prospectus in amenability to maize cultivation mechanization in hilly regions of Jammu and Kashmir State based on the field experiments conducted. Based on the comparative performance of improved implements with convent ional methods of maize cultivation, mechanization prospectus of different farm operations of maize cultivation have been explored and presented in this paper. Seed bed preparation with a power tiller rotary has enhanced the crop yields by 17.6 percent, in comparison to bullock ploughing due to a fine and well pulverized seed bed. Maize sowing by a rotary dibbler raised bed planter ensured a proper plant stand and produced 20-25 percent increased yield over the conventional method of sowing (broadcasting). Weeding, with the help of a wheel hand hoe and power weeder, gave a cost saving of about Rs. 1,400-1,700 per hectare over J. N. Khan