BENGALURU, 12 May 2026: Kerala Agricultural University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with VST Tillers Tractors Ltd. to collaborate on research, farm mechanisation, product validation and extension activities aimed at strengthening sustainable agriculture practices in Kerala.
The partnership seeks to combine VST Tillers’ expertise in tractors and mechanisation equipment with KAU’s research, teaching and extension capabilities to develop farm technologies suited to Kerala’s unique agricultural conditions.
Under the agreement, VST Tillers will provide power tillers and tractors ranging from 13 HP to 50 HP for testing, demonstrations and research activities at KAU farms. The company will also supply compatible farm implements along with technical support for machinery deployed under the programme.
KAU will provide field infrastructure, operational support and research expertise for testing, evaluation and demonstration of farm equipment and mechanisation technologies.
Focus on labour shortage and productivity
The collaboration will focus on identifying advanced mechanisation solutions that can help address labour shortages, improve farm productivity and support sustainable farming systems in the State.
The MoU also aims to create opportunities for students and researchers to undertake collaborative projects in agricultural engineering and mechanisation, while providing practical industry exposure.
Antony Cherukara, CEO of VST Tillers Tractors Ltd., said the collaboration aligns with the company’s vision of empowering small and marginal farmers through affordable and innovative mechanisation solutions.
He added that students and researchers from KAU would also get opportunities to engage with the company’s upcoming Global Technology Development Centre in Hosur to develop cost-efficient and field-ready agricultural technologies.
Industry-academia collaboration
Dr A. Sakeer Husain, Registrar of Kerala Agricultural University, said the partnership would strengthen the university’s efforts in promoting innovation, research and technology dissemination in agricultural mechanisation.
He noted that collaboration with industry partners would improve practical exposure for students while helping develop efficient farm technologies tailored to Kerala’s farming ecosystem.
Officials from both organisations said the partnership marks a significant step towards strengthening agricultural innovation and ensuring wider adoption of modern, affordable and efficient mechanisation technologies among farmers in the State.
