ANALYZING ERGONOMIC SUITABILITY OF FALCON MAKE GARLIC PLANTER FOR GARLIC SOWING IN CONTRAST TO TRADITIONAL TECHNIQUES

Abstract

Garlic (Allium sativum), a member of the onion family, holds significant importance as a versatile bulb crop cultivated across diverse climatic zones worldwide. This study delves into the multifaceted attributes of garlic cultivation, its medicinal properties, and its potential for value-added processing. The crop's wide-ranging benefits include its utility as a spice, a condiment, and a medicinal remedy for various ailments. With insecticidal, fungicidal, and bactericidal properties, garlic's versatility extends beyond culinary and health domains. Regular consumption of garlic is linked to lowered cholesterol and blood pressure levels, contributing to human health enhancement. The economic viability of garlic cultivation is underscored by its low input requirements and substantial benefit-to-cost ratio. Garlic cultivation patterns are characterized by sowing in October/November and harvesting from April to June, rendering it a crucial foreign exchange earner for countries like India. The nation's garlic production is bolstered by its vast processing potential, encompassing fresh, chilled, dried garlic, dehydrated flakes, powder, and oil, all of which augment its export portfolio. The emergence of processing industries accentuates the demand for raw materials, prompting increased cultivation of garlic. This expansion is driven by its long shelf life, favorable hybrids, and burgeoning market demand. The production landscape is dispersed across various Indian states, with Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan contributing approximately 80% of the national output. Himachal Pradesh, a prominent garlic-producing state in northern India, exemplifies the crop's adaptability. The state's elevated terrain, ranging from 1000 to 1500 meters above sea level, provides an ideal environment for garlic cultivation. Despite limited acreage, Himachal Pradesh emerges as a notable garlic producer, with its small and marginal farmers embracing the labor-efficient crop. The labor-intensive sowing process underscores garlic's significance, requiring substantial man-days for planting. Moreover, short day lengths favor bulb formation, emphasizing the crop's sensitivity to weather conditions. In conclusion, garlic's significance extends beyond its culinary applications, encompassing medicinal attributes, processing potential, and economic value. This study sheds light on the diverse facets of garlic cultivation and underscores its pivotal role in agricultural economies and human well-being