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Institute of Agribusiness Management, S.V. Agricultural College, ANGRAU, Tirupati-517 502.
Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs) serve as a crucial support system for advancing farm mechanisation, particularly helping marginal and small-scale farmers. CHCs help reduce cultivation costs and guarantee timely farming activities by renting out farm equipment. Despite these advantages, farmers continue to face several operational challenges in accessing CHC services effectively. The current research was conducted in Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh, to identify the major constraints experienced by CHC users. Data from 100 farmers were analysed using the Garrett ranking method to rank the constraints based on their severity. Findings revealed that the most pressing concerns were the unavailability of machinery during peak seasons, delays in service delivery, and high hiring costs. Other difficulties included a shortage of trained operators, insufficient machinery options, poor equipment maintenance, and limited awareness of available services. Issues like favouritism and lack of transparency also hindered fair access. These insights highlight the need for systemic improvements in CHC functioning. The study suggests steps such as expanding machine inventory, skill development for local operators, implementation of real- time service systems, and improved accountability mechanisms. These actions can greatly improve the efficiency, accessibility, and inclusivity of CHCs, driving sustainable mechanization in agriculture.
KEYWORDS: Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs), Farm mechanization, Farmer constraints in CHCs, Rural mechanization.