Defer rollout: Mahindra to government on more accurate emissions test
Mahindra Urges Government to Postpone Tier-V Emission Norm Rollout for Tractors
Industry asks for time to improve testing infrastructure before strict rules take effect
India’s top tractor manufacturer, Mahindra & Mahindra, has asked the central government to delay the introduction of Tier-V emission norms. These norms, set for April 2026, aim to reduce pollution from agricultural vehicles. However, Mahindra and other companies argue that India lacks the proper testing systems needed for such a shift.
An agriculture panel, set up to study these concerns, supports the request. It recently submitted a report suggesting a postponement. The panel believes current infrastructure is not ready and warns of rising costs for farmers if the government pushes ahead too quickly.
What Are Tier-V Emission Norms?
Tier-V norms are part of India’s strategy to reduce air pollution and align with global environmental goals. These rules would limit harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxides and particulate matter released by diesel tractors.
India currently follows Bharat (TREM) Stage-IV norms. Moving to Tier-V means using advanced technology, including Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) and selective catalytic systems. These updates require extensive changes in design and testing.
Why Manufacturers Want a Delay
Mahindra and other industry leaders say India is not ready for such a major change. They highlight several concerns:
- Lack of modern testing labs – Many emission testing centers still use outdated tools. This could lead to errors and unfair test results.
- High upgrade costs – Companies will need to invest heavily in research and development. These costs may pass on to buyers.
- Farmer affordability – Most Indian farmers, especially those with small holdings, may struggle to buy tractors that meet the new rules.
- Supply chain issues – Some critical components, like DPFs, are not yet made in India. Depending on imports would increase costs and delay production.
Agriculture Panel Backs the Industry
A government-appointed panel, made up of agriculture and environment experts, reviewed the issue. After meeting with industry leaders and testing agencies, it agreed with the call for a delay. The panel advised the government to wait until reliable testing systems are in place.
The report also warned that rushing the rollout could hit small farmers the hardest. These farmers make up over 85% of India’s agricultural population. Many use low-cost tractors that may become too expensive under the new standards.
Impact on Farmers
If the Tier-V rules come into effect in 2026, tractor prices may rise by ₹75,000 to ₹1 lakh. For a small or marginal farmer, that’s a steep cost. Many might choose to delay new purchases or buy second-hand machines instead. This would reduce demand and hurt progress toward cleaner farming.
Experts say the policy must support both the environment and the economy. A plan that farmers cannot afford will only slow down adoption and widen the gap between rich and poor in rural areas.
What Might Happen Next
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, along with the Ministry of Agriculture, will review the panel’s report. Based on early signals, a delay seems likely. Government officials may also invest in upgrading labs and standardizing emission tests before the new rules begin.
Manufacturers want clarity on the timeline. They say clear rules and long-term goals will help them prepare better. Some also ask for tax breaks or subsidies to develop cleaner tractors, especially for models under 50 horsepower.
Environmental Viewpoint
While industry concerns matter, environmental groups worry about repeated delays. India already trails behind Europe and the U.S. in controlling emissions from farm vehicles. Pushing back Tier-V norms again could hurt the country’s climate goals.
Activists suggest a balanced solution. The government should fund better labs, offer support to small farmers, and phase in the rules over time. That way, India can stay on track without hurting livelihoods.
Conclusion
Mahindra’s request to delay Tier-V norms reflects a key challenge—how to protect the environment without harming the economy. The government must now decide whether to push ahead or pause. Either way, it must ensure that policies are fair, practical, and future-focused.
This debate will shape how India handles regulation in the fast-changing world of clean technology. It’s not just about tractors—it’s about making sure progress works for everyone, from factory to farm.
