Theory question 102
Farm Machinery and Mechanisation(a) What does mechanization mean in Agriculture?
(b) What are the advantages and disadvantages of mechanization?
(c) State and discuss briefly four limitations of mechanization in agriculture.
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(a) Mechanisation is the use of machines and power-driven implements (tractors, ploughs, harrows, planters, harvesters, processors) in place of human and animal labour on the farm
(b) Advantages: larger areas cultivated; operations done quickly and on time; reduces drudgery; higher output and efficiency; encourages large-scale/commercial farming
Disadvantages: displaces labour (unemployment); compacts and damages soil structure; high cost of machines and maintenance; pollution from fuel; may encourage erosion
(c) Any four, discussed: small and scattered holdings; high cost of machines and spare parts; lack of skilled operators and mechanics; land tenure system; unsuitable topography/tree stumps/rocky land; seasonality of farm work leaving machines idle; poor finance/credit
Give a definition, then balance advantages against disadvantages before the limitations.