TAFE and ICRISAT Launches Agri-Research Centre in Hyderabad

Hyderabad – Tractors and Farm Equipment Limited (TAFE)., a tractor manufacturer, has partnered with the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT)., to establish a new agricultural research centre in Hyderabad. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two organisations paves the way for the launch of the JFarm Adaptive Agriculture Research & Extension Centre at ICRISAT’s campus in Patancheru.

The new centre in Hyderabad will operate under the Centre of Excellence for South–South Cooperation in Agriculture (ISSCA) framework. By combining ICRISAT’s global research strengths with TAFE’s expertise in agricultural machinery, the centre aims to introduce international farming technologies to Indian agriculture and, at the same time, take Indian innovations to other countries across the Global South.

The JFarm Adaptive Agriculture Research & Extension Centre will test and adapt innovations like ICRISAT’s machine-harvestable chickpeas for different crops and climates. It will train farmers in sustainable practices, efficient water use, soil conservation, and choosing the right machinery for their farms.

The centre also promotes gender equality and aims to turn farmers into entrepreneurs through models like Farmer-to-Farmer (F2F) Digital Custom Hiring, which offers access to modern equipment without ownership. As a collaborative hub, it will connect researchers, startups, and farmers, offering hands-on training to bring research directly to the field.

Dr. T R Kesavan, Group President and TAFE Board Member, said, “We aim to promote precision farming while protecting land and water. We understand the diverse needs of farmers and believe that sharing knowledge is key to increasing the number of farmers who use machines. With ICRISAT’s support, we can reach farmers in every corner.”

Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Director General of ICRISAT, said, “Mechanisation is vital for India’s future in farming. Without it, we cannot reach the goal of Viksit Bharat (Developed India). This partnership is not just about machines. It’s about using research to reduce chemical use, labour needs, and environmental harm. We aim to take these solutions not just across India but to Africa as well.”

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