Development of Portable Ragi Thresher and Winnowing Machine

Ragi (finger millet) is a vital crop in many parts of India and other regions in Africa and Asia, known for its high nutritional value. The traditional methods of threshing and winnowing ragi are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and low yield. The present research work presents the Development of a portable ragi thresher and winnowing machine aimed at addressing these challenges. The proposed machine integrates both threshing and winnowing processes into a single compact and portable unit, making it suitable for small-scale farmers and rural communities. The portable ragi thresher reduces the physical effort and time required for threshing. The winnowing component uses air flow generated by a fan system to separate the lighter chaff from the heavier ragi grains, ensuring a cleaner and more efficient process compared to manual winnowing. The machine is powered by a small motor. This innovative solution aims to improve productivity, reduce post-harvest losses, and make ragi processing more accessible to smallholder farmers. The design is lightweight, mobile, and economical, making it feasible for widespread adoption in rural areas. The machine's efficiency, ease of use, and low maintenance requirements are expected to significantly enhance the overall agricultural value chain for ragi cultivation. This development could contribute to improved food security, higher income for farmers, and promote the sustainable use of local agricultural resources.