A substantial loss of paddy crops in Sri Lanka, is caused due to the delay in harvesting. This delay could be chiefly attributed to the shortage of labour during peak harvesting seasons. Labour as a factor of production, even in cases where it is available, proves to be extremely costly. In view of the above problem, the need arose for a machine to be developed. The Research and Development Division of Jinasena Ltd. in collaboration with the Farm Mechanization Research Centre developed the 1.2 m Paddy Reaper and eventually manufactured and introduced it to the local farmers as a solution to their difficulty. Since many farmers already own two-wheel tractors, the Reaper attachment will make their Power Tiller more versatile. A self propelled Reaper was developed. Its light weight makes it highly manoeuvrable. This mechine can be used to harvest in muddy fields when fitted with broad tyres. |