Power Tiller Subsidy in India: Government Schemes, Eligibility & How to Apply
The Indian government has long been promoting agricultural mechanization to increase productivity and reduce labor costs. One of the most farmer-friendly initiatives is the Power Tiller Subsidy Scheme, which helps small and marginal farmers purchase modern tillers at affordable prices. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the latest subsidy programs, eligibility criteria, and step-by-step instructions on how to apply for a power tiller subsidy in India.
Whether you’re planning to buy a VST Power Tiller, Kirloskar Power Tiller, or other popular brands, this post will help you understand the government’s support structure, benefits, and real-world subsidy amounts for 2025.
What Is the Power Tiller Subsidy Scheme?
The Power Tiller Subsidy Scheme is part of India’s agricultural mechanization programs under the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM) and state-level initiatives. It aims to help farmers adopt efficient farm machinery like power tillers, mini tillers, and weeders to save time, reduce labor dependency, and improve yields.
The subsidy is typically offered as a percentage of the machine’s total cost, varying by category of farmer and state government policy.
Types of Power Tiller Subsidies Available
- Central Government Subsidy (through SMAM): Implemented across India via the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. Provides financial assistance based on farmer type and equipment category.
- State Government Subsidy: States like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Bihar provide additional subsidies under their local agriculture departments.
- Custom Hiring Centre (CHC) Subsidy: For farmer groups or cooperatives establishing shared machinery pools for community use.
- Special Category Subsidies: For women farmers, SC/ST farmers, and those from hilly or remote regions—offering higher financial assistance.
State-wise websites list – to Applying for Subsidies
- Maharashtra: MahaDBT (Maharashtra Direct Benefit Transfer) Portal. You can find schemes under “Farmer / Scheme Data”, like mechanization schemes. Or directly go to Maharashtra Farmer Schemes. Visit the Farmer user manual here.
- Bihar: Visit the Bihar Agriculture website here to get more information. Visit here to apply for a new subsidy or to know the status of an existing subsidy application.
Typical Subsidy Amounts for Power Tillers (2025)
| Farmer Category | Subsidy Percentage | Maximum Subsidy (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| General Farmer | 25% – 30% | Up to ₹45,000 |
| Small & Marginal Farmer | 35% – 40% | Up to ₹60,000 |
| SC/ST/Women Farmer | 40% – 50% | Up to ₹75,000 |
| Farmers in Hilly Regions | Up to 55% | Up to ₹80,000 |
Subsidy amounts depend on the model and price of the machine. For example, a 13 HP Power Tiller costing ₹1.5 lakh may receive a ₹50,000–₹80,000 subsidy depending on eligibility.
Eligibility Criteria for Power Tiller Subsidy
- Applicant must be a registered farmer with a valid Aadhaar number and bank account.
- Only one machine per farmer/family is generally allowed under a subsidy program.
- A farmer should have cultivable land or lease documents as proof.
- Preference is often given to small, marginal, and women farmers.
- Machines purchased must be from authorized dealers or empaneled manufacturers such as VST, Greaves, or Kirloskar.
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card
- Land ownership or lease certificate
- Bank passbook (for DBT transfer)
- Quotation or proforma invoice from the dealer
- Passport-size photographs
- Caste certificate (for special category farmers)
How to Apply for Power Tiller Subsidy Online
Farmers can apply through their respective State Agriculture Department Portal or the Central Agriculture Machinery Subsidy Portal. Below is the general process:
- Visit your state’s Agriculture Subsidy Portal.
- Register using your Aadhaar number and basic details.
- Select the scheme name – Subsidy on Power Tiller or Agricultural Equipment.
- Upload required documents and select the tiller model.
- Submit your application and note the registration ID.
- Once approved, purchase the tiller from an authorized dealer.
- Subsidy is credited directly to your bank account after verification.
In some states, you may also apply through offline methods at the District Agriculture Office or through your Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK).
Top Power Tiller Models Eligible for Subsidy
- VST Shakti 130 DI – 13 HP diesel engine; widely accepted under most subsidy programs.
- Kirloskar Mega T 15 – 15 HP tiller is ideal for multi-crop use and high-acreage farms.
- Honda FJ500 Petrol Tiller – Lightweight option for horticulture and small farms.
- Greaves Cotton GXT 105 – Reliable diesel tiller known for fuel efficiency.
Learn more about these models in our guide on Best Power Tillers for Small Farms in India.
Important Tips Before Applying
- Always apply before purchasing the tiller; post-purchase applications are not accepted in most states.
- Check the latest state-wise subsidy status, as rules and amounts may vary annually.
- Keep all receipts and photographs of machine delivery for verification.
- Choose authorized dealers to ensure eligibility for subsidy release.
FAQs on Power Tiller Subsidy
1. What is the subsidy percentage for power tillers in India?
Subsidy varies from 25% to 55% depending on the category of farmer and the state government’s scheme.
2. Can I apply for more than one machine under the subsidy scheme?
No, only one power tiller or similar equipment is allowed per farmer under a subsidy cycle.
3. How long does it take for subsidy approval?
Generally, 30–60 days, depending on document verification and availability of funds.
4. Can corporate or commercial farms apply?
Most schemes are meant for individual farmers or registered cooperatives, not commercial entities.
5. Which states offer the highest subsidy?
States like Himachal Pradesh, Odisha, and Assam offer up to 55% subsidy for hilly and tribal regions.
Conclusion
Government subsidy programs make owning a power tiller much more affordable for Indian farmers. By taking advantage of these schemes, farmers can upgrade to efficient models like VST Shakti or Kirloskar at significantly lower costs. These tillers not only save time but also help increase farm productivity with better soil aeration and fuel efficiency.
For detailed instructions on applying and verifying your application, check our guide on the Agriculture Machinery Subsidy Portal. And if you’re still deciding on which model to buy, don’t miss our comparison between Power Tiller vs Mini Tractor and the list of Best Power Tillers for Small Farms.