Top 10 Tractor Companies in India (2025) | Best Brands & Models
Introduction
Tractors are the backbone of Indian agriculture, revolutionizing farm productivity by mechanizing plowing, sowing, and harvesting. More than half of India’s population depends on farming, and tractors provide efficiency and power to small and large fields alike. India is the world’s largest exporter of tractors and manufactures about one-third of the tractors sold globally. Homegrown tractor companies like Mahindra, Sonalika, and Swaraj dominate the domestic market, while international brands like John Deere and New Holland compete strongly. Tractors have become indispensable to farmers by increasing yields and reducing manual labor.
- Country of origin: India.
- Established / First tractor: Founded in 1947; launched its first tractor (Mahindra B-275) in 1963.
- Tractors sold in India (FY2024-25): 2,08,085 units.
- Global sales (FY2024-25): 4,24,641 units (India + exports).
- HP range: 15–74 HP.
- Key features : Mahindra tractors are known for robust direct-injection diesel engines, wide operating range, fuel efficiency, and strong 4WD capabilities. They offer advanced features like multispeed power take-off (PTO) and high hydraulic lift, enhancing versatility.
- Top models : Popular models include the Mahindra 575 DI XP Plus, Mahindra 475 DI, and Mahindra 585 DI. These flagship models are best-sellers, praised for reliability and resale value.
Mahindra & Mahindra is the world’s largest tractor manufacturer by volume. Its tractors dominate Indian farms from small 15 HP utility models up to heavy-duty 74 HP machines. The company continuously upgrades technology (like digitized dashboards and climate-controlled cabins) to meet modern needs.
2. Swaraj Tractors
- Country of origin: India.
- Established / First tractor: Founded in 1974 (as Punjab Tractors Ltd), launched its first model Swaraj 724 (26.5 HP) in 1974.
- Tractors sold in India (FY2024-25): 1,65,539 units.
- Global sales: Primarily domestic market leader (exports are minimal). It sells over 100,000 Swaraj tractors in India each year.
- HP range: 15–65 HP.
- Key features: Swaraj tractors feature rugged DI engines, easy-to-use transmissions, and low maintenance design. Many models come with narrow-width options for orchards and a highly efficient hydraulic system. They also offer a unique “spray-saver” PTO mode for fuel efficiency.
- Top models: Commonly used models include Swaraj 744 FE (50 HP), Swaraj 855 FE (55 HP), and Swaraj 963 FE (60 HP). The Swaraj 724 XM (25 HP) and 735 FE (35 HP) are popular in specialized segments.
Swaraj, now part of Mahindra, has a strong brand legacy in Punjab and northern India. Its tractors are appreciated for durability and after-sales support. They often compete neck-and-neck with Mahindra models in overall sales.
3. Sonalika (International Tractors Ltd.)
- Country of origin: India.
- Established / First tractor: Founded in 1995; began selling its first Sonalika tractor in 1996.
- Tractors sold in India (FY2024-25): 1,15,193 units.
- Global sales: 1,53,764 units worldwide in FY2024-25. Sonalika is a leading exporter, active in 150+ countries.
- HP range: 20–120 HP
- Key features: Sonalika tractors are known for modern CRDi diesel engines, electronic hydraulic controls, and spacious cabs. Features like a 5G hydraulic lift, multispeed transmission, and optional air-conditioned cabins (Wolrdtrac AC series) enhance comfort and productivity.
- Top models: Flagship models include Sonalika DI 745 III RX Sikander (50 HP), DI 750 III Sikander (55 HP), and the heavy-duty Sonalika Worldtrac 90 (88 HP AC cabin). The Sonalika DI 35 and DI 750 series are among India’s best-sellers.
4. Massey Ferguson – by TAFE India
- Country of origin: USA (brand; parent AGCO Corporation).
- Established / First tractor: Massey Ferguson formed in 1953 (merger of Massey-Harris and Ferguson). First MF-branded tractors emerged in the 1950s. TAFE (India) partnered with MF in 1960 to begin local production.
- Tractors sold in India (FY2024-25): 99,286 units (as per Massey brand in TAFE portfolio).
- Global sales: AGCO (Massey Ferguson’s parent) sells hundreds of thousands worldwide (e.g. 180,000 tractors in 2014-15 globally.
- HP range: 20–75 HP.
- Key features: Massey Ferguson tractors (built by TAFE in India) are noted for robust 3-cylinder engines, portal gearbox (gear-driven front axle), and comfortable seating. Many models use the patented “Planetary Plus” gearbox for strength. Latest models include multi-speed PTO, throttle response control, and MFD hydraulic pump for faster implement response.
- Top models: Popular models are Massey Ferguson 1035 DI (35 HP), Massey Ferguson 241 DI Mahashakti (42 HP), and Massey Ferguson 245 DI Planetary Plus (45 HP). The Massey 7250 DI Power Plus (50 HP) is a recent bestseller.
Massey Ferguson (TAFE) has a long history in India since 1960. Its range covers utility to high-horsepower models. The TAFE-MF tie-up provides a blend of global tech and Indian customization.
5. Escorts Kubota
- Country of origin: India-Japan (joint venture; Escorts India Ltd. and Kubota Corp. Japan).
- Established / First tractor: Escorts was established in 1944; first farm tractor (Ford-Tractor licensed) launched around 1960. (Escorts began tractor production in 1960; joined with Japan’s Kubota in 2020 to form Escorts Kubota Ltd.).
- Tractors sold in India (FY2024-25): 87,624 units.
- Global sales: Kubota is a leading global tractor maker, with around 120,000 tractors sold annually worldwide (including Asia, Europe, Americas). Escorts’ historic sales were major in North India.
- HP range: 22–80 HP.
- Key features: Escorts Kubota tractors (previously Escorts Farmtrac/Powertrac) emphasize advanced hydraulics and heavy-duty build. Notable features include a sealed-for-life front axle, 5-year engine warranty, and optional dual-clutch system for smooth engagement. Kubota technology brings high fuel efficiency and comfortable cabins.
- Top models: Farmtrac 60 Powermaxx (55 HP), Farmtrac 45 Champion (45 HP) and Powertrac Euro 52 (52 HP) are among top sellers. Escorts Kubota also sells specialty models like Kubota M series for orchards.
Escorts has a legacy of pioneering tractors in India since the 1960s. The new Escorts Kubota venture aims to strengthen R&D and expand offerings.
6. John Deere India
- Country of origin: USA (Deere & Company, founded by John Deere).
- Established / First tractor: Deere & Co. founded in 1837; introduced its first gasoline tractor (Waterloo Boy) in 1918. Its Indian subsidiary was set up later (the first Indian-made John Deere tractor came in the 1990s).
- Tractors sold in India (FY2024-25): 66,752 units.
- Global sales: John Deere is a global giant – selling about 100,000+ tractors worldwide annually (2024 net sales ~$52B across machinery).
- HP range: 28–74 HP.
- Key features: John Deere tractors are noted for cutting-edge tech like selective catalytic reduction (SCR) for emissions, top-shaft lubrication, and premium cabin comfort. They use efficient 4-cylinder PowerTech engines, hydrostatic steering, and modern dashboards.
- Top models: Popular models include John Deere 5310 PowerTech (57 HP), John Deere 5050 4WD (50 HP), and John Deere 5405 (63 HP). These models are widely used by progressive farmers for their reliability and fuel efficiency.
John Deere’s tractors are seen as premium, often chosen for high-end applications. Its Indian factories (Hoshiarpur, Sanand) also export to Asia and Africa.
7. Eicher Tractors
- Country of origin: India (originally Eicher India, now owned by TAFE).
- Established / First tractor: Eicher Ltd (India) started engine manufacturing in 1949; introduced first tractor (Eicher 135) around 1960s under license. (TAFE took over Eicher operations in 2005.).
- Tractors sold in India (FY2024-25): 57,213 units.
- Global sales: Small global presence; mainly serves India (part of TAFE’s MF/Eicher portfolio).
- HP range: 18–60 HP.
- Key features: Eicher tractors combine simplicity and strength. They typically have a classic mechanical design, with heavy-duty clutches and gearboxes suited for tough field conditions. Recent Prima G3 series added features like wraparound headlamps and extended wheelbase.
- Top models: Notable models include Eicher 380 Super Plus (40 HP), Eicher 551 Prima G3 (50 HP), and Eicher 333 Super Plus (36 HP). These models offer low maintenance and good traction in Indian soils.
Eicher remains a niche player focused on reliability and cost-efficiency.
8. New Holland – CNH Industrial India
- Country of origin: Italy/USA (Brand of CNH Industrial; New Holland originated in USA in 1895, now Dutch-owned multinational).
- Established / First tractor: New Holland was founded in 1895; launched its first modern tractor in the 1960s. The Indian subsidiary (previously Ford New Holland) has roots back to the 1960s; CNH India formed after Ford divested its tractor business.
- Tractors sold in India (FY2024-25): 35,283 units.
- Global sales: CNH Industrial sells over 150,000 tractors globally (including Case IH and New Holland brands).
- HP range: ~35–75 HP (popular NX and TX series, with some models like NH 3630 at 49 HP up to NH 5630 at 75 HP).
- Key features: New Holland tractors often incorporate FPT (FIAT Powertrain) engines, Sensomatic step-less transmission (CVT in higher models), and specialty paddy gearbox for wetland cultivation. Models in India also come with good warranties (6 years standard) and comfortable ROPS cabins.
- Top models: Popular ones are New Holland 3630 TX (49 HP), New Holland 5620 TX (65 HP) and New Holland 5630 TX (75 HP). These are used for both general farming and cash crops like sugarcane/paddy.
New Holland in India appeals to progressive farmers and corporate farming projects.
9. Kubota India
- Country of origin: Japan.
- Established / First tractor: Kubota Corporation was founded in 1890; its first farm tractor (Kubota T20) launched in 1947 in Japan. Kubota established its India subsidiary in 1994.
- Tractors sold in India (FY2024-25): 15,026 units.
- Global sales: Kubota is the world’s second-largest tractor maker by volume, selling ~120,000 tractors globally per year.
- HP range: 24–87 HP (Kubota India offers mini-tractors as well as midsize up to 50–60 HP; notable model M9540 is 50+ HP).
- Key features: Kubota tractors are known for advanced technology even in small tractors: hydrostatic steering, hydrostatic transmission (in some models), robust water-cooled engines, and excellent reliability. Optional features include dual-range CVT transmission (in larger series) and padded seats for comfort.
- Top models: Kubota M5040 (51 HP), Kubota MU4502 (47 HP), and the mini-tractor Kubota JMA (22 HP) are well-known. Kubota also sells utility vehicles and implements widely.
Kubota India focuses on quality and exports (it exports some Indian-made models too).
10. Captain Tractors
- Country of origin: India.
- Established / First tractor: Founded in 1994 to build small multi-purpose tractors; first models launched in late 1990s.
- Tractors sold in India (FY2024-25): 3,557 units.
- Global sales: Primarily domestic niche market; does minimal exports.
- HP range: 20–28 HP.
- Key features: Captain specializes in mini tractors (sub-30 HP) for small farms and orchard work. Features include fuel-efficient engines, sliding-mesh gearboxes, and optional 4WD. They offer low-cost mechanical simplicity with good fuel economy and low maintenance.
- Top models: Captain 200 DI (20 HP), Captain 275 DI (25 HP), and Captain 280 DX (28 HP) are among their flagship mini-tractors.
Captain Tractors is a small family-owned company in Gujarat, focusing on cost-conscious farmers.
Comparison Table
| Comapny | Origin | Founded | First Tractor | HP Range | India Sales(2024-25) | Global Sales(2024-25) |
| Mahindra & Mahindra | India | 1947 | Mahindra B-275 (1963) | 15 - 74 | 2,08,085 | 4,24,641 |
| Swaraj | India | 1974 | Swaraj-724 (1974) | 15 - 65 | 1,65,539 | Domastic |
| Sonalika (ITL) | India | 1995 | 1996 | 20 - 120 | 1,15,193 | 1,53,764 |
| Massey Ferguson (TAFE) | USA / India | MF-1953 / TAFE-1960 | 1960 | 20 - 75 | 99,286 | 1,80,000 |
| Escorts Kubota | India / Japan | 1994 | JV 2020 | 15 - 80 | 87,624 | 1,20,000 (Kubota) |
| John Deere | USA | 1837 | Waterloo Boy - 1918 | 28 - 74 | 66,752 | 1,00,000 |
| Eicher | India | 1949 | NA | 18 - 60 | 57,213 | NA |
| New Holland(CNH) | USA / Europe | 1895 | NA | 18 - 75 | 35,283 | 1,50,000+ |
| Kubota India | Japan | 1890 (India - 1960) | NA | 18 - 87 | 15,26 | 1,20,000 |
| Captain Tractors | India | 1994 | NA | 20 - 28 | 3,557 | NA |
Conclusion
Indian farmers have diverse tractor needs – from mini 20 HP machines to powerful 75+ HP workhorses. The leading Indian brands (Mahindra, Swaraj, Sonalika) cover almost every segment with home-grown technology, high local support, and competitive pricing. Global brands like John Deere and Kubota bring cutting-edge features and cabins, while Japanese engineering adds value in compact tractors. Ultimately, farmers should choose tractors based on land size, required power (HP), and after-sales network.