Agriculture, which forms the financial base for our country, has been traditionally an essential part of the Indian social structure.
This is especially true in a country where farming has been practised for many centuries, meaning that much of the equipment used then is still with us today. Though today’s world has evolved with these sophisticated tools, these tools are still prominent in the field of agriculture.
In this post, we will introduce you to 15 historical farming tools still used in India, explain how they work, and explain why they were needed. This is an invitation for me and you to begin the process of positive change!
Although Indian agriculture has changed rapidly and technology has taken over still, there are plenty of ancient farming tools that are used by our Indian farmers, including:
The plough is traditionally used in India and is most popularly known as the “Hal.” This tool, which was crafted from wood in the past, was used to prepare the soil for planting. Farmers pull on the plough by hand or use bulls to overturn the soil to provide a proper environment for crops.
The harrow, or “Oot,” is a tool that follows the plough in the farming process. It consists of a framework with spikes or teeth. The harrow levels out the soil while breaking up clumps, preparing it for sowing seeds.
The seed drill, known as “Beej bovai upkaran”, is an innovative tool for sowing seeds at the correct depth and spacing. It converts traditional hand sowing into a more efficient method, reducing seed wastage.
The plank, or “Khel,” is a simple yet effective tool used for levelling fields after ploughing. Farmers pull it behind oxen or by hand, ensuring the soil is uniformly distributed across the field.
The Sickle, or ‘Dhaman’, is what this tool is called in many Indian languages. It is a curved hand tool used in reaping crops. It is easy for farmers to harvest because the tool can slice through the stalks entirely.
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In India, the use of natural products such as neem leaves and turmeric to control pests is a century old. These can be used to make repellents that farmers make without the use of chemicals to discourage pests.
Kachchi Dhara, or traditional irrigation tools, encompass various methods, such as wells and earthen canals. These methods have been used for centuries to ensure an adequate water supply to crops.
Chisel ploughs are particularly useful in cutting through hard layers of compaction that wreck the chisel-like muck to prepare good seedbeds. However, albeit less frequently recognised, they have existed in one form or another throughout India’s agricultural history.
The spade, known as “Fawda”, is a versatile hand tool used for digging, turning over soil, and removing weeds. Its design allows for effective labour in small spaces and tight spots.
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Manual threshers make it slightly easier for farmers to pull grains away from their stalks. Farmers use these tools to maximise grain loss during the harvesting process.
The Ghoomar is a traditional seed fluffer used for sowing. Farmers scatter seeds evenly by hand, ensuring better coverage and distribution across the field.
This tool is used to make traditional ropes and twine from agricultural fibres. Though it’s more artisanal, it plays a vital role in agricultural processes.
The rake, or “Jetari”, is used to gather loose material such as hay or soil. It helps prepare the field before sowing seeds or during harvesting.
Oxens play a very important role in Indian agriculture. They are generally used for ploughing fields and dragging heavy loads.
The basket, known in many regions as “Kothi,” is used for gathering produce. Handwoven from local materials, it is eco-friendly and customisable based on needs.
These ancient tools reflect the wisdom and ingenuity of generations of farmers. Their continued use signifies a connection to the past, and they also serve practical purposes in modern agriculture. Here are a few reasons to embrace these tools:
While equipment dominates in developed countries, our Indian farmers continue to use most of the early tools in their farming activities.
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Q: What are the oldest farming tools?
A: Some of the oldest farming tools that are still being used by the Indian farmers are:
Q: What is the most used farming tool?
A: The most widely used farming tool is the plough, used for tilling the land.
Q: Is agriculture spray pump an important tool for farmers?
A: Yes, agriculture spray pumps are crucial for efficient and precise application of pesticides and fertilisers.
Q: What are ancient harvesting tools?
A: Ancient harvesting tools include sickles, scythes, and threshing flails, used for cutting and separating grains.
Q: Which traditional tool is used for ploughing?
A: Traditional tools like the wooden plough and the iron plough are commonly used for ploughing fields.
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