Escorts Kubota Limited (EKL), a leading engineering group in India’s agricultural and construction equipment sectors, has rolled out its third-generation Ride-On Rice Transplanters—KA6 and KA8—under the Kubota brand. Developed in Japan, the new models combine advanced engineering with practical field performance to deliver greater productivity, improved planting accuracy and enhanced comfort for operators. The machines have been launched across seven states—Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Telangana—where the demand for mechanized paddy cultivation continues to grow.
Powered by Kubota’s fuel-efficient engines delivering 21 hp (KA6) and 24 hp (KA8), the transplanters are built to perform reliably even in demanding field conditions. Both models feature a smart turning system for better manoeuvrability and an automatic lift function that simplifies cornering. A multifunction control lever ensures smooth operation, while the horizontal control mechanism maintains uniform planting depth. The redesigned planting claws reduce missed placements, ensuring consistent seedling spacing, and the updated seedling-picking guide further enhances precision—supporting better crop establishment and more uniform yields.
The new series also offers improved operator comfort. A wider platform allows easier movement, and an ergonomic control layout reduces fatigue during long hours of work. LED lighting enables continued operation after sunset. A lighter planting section and extended wheelbase improve stability and balance, helping the machines negotiate larger ridges and function effectively in deep wet-field conditions.
Commenting on the launch, Bharat Madan, Chief Financial Officer & Wholetime Director, said, “Farmers have long shouldered the vital responsibility of feeding the nation, often under challenging conditions. At Escorts Kubota Limited, we see mechanization as essential to empowering them, improving efficiency and ensuring sustainable agricultural growth. The new KA Series represents a major step forward, transforming a labour-intensive process through precision, comfort and innovation. By bringing global technology together with local insights, we continue driving India’s mechanization journey—boosting productivity, reliability and prosperity for farmers.”
Rajan Chugh, Chief Officer, Agri Solutions Business Division, added, “The KA6 and KA8 reflect our ongoing focus on innovation and farmer-centric design. Each feature responds directly to practical field challenges—from labour shortages to long daily operating hours—and delivers dependable performance year after year. With higher horsepower, smart turning and an ergonomic layout, these models make rice transplanting faster, more uniform and more profitable for today’s farmers.”
Escorts Kubota Limited (EKL) is a long-standing engineering company with more than eight decades of experience, providing advanced solutions in agriculture and construction equipment that support India’s development. Its product portfolio includes the Farmtrac, Powertrac and Kubota tractor ranges, specialized Farmpower machinery and a strong line of construction equipment. Combining Indian engineering strengths with Japanese precision, EKL delivers high-performance, reliable equipment through an extensive dealer network in India and overseas, reinforcing its role as a forward-looking leader in the transformation of agriculture and infrastructure.
