Journal of Experimental Agriculture International

Draught animals remain an important source of farm power for smallholder agriculture; however, poorly fitted conventional yokes can increase animal discomfort and reduce draught efficiency. The study aimed to design and evaluate improved bullock-drawn yokes for harrowing, interculture, and cart operations, with emphasis on reducing draft requirement, improving operational performance, and limiting animal discomfort. A survey of locally used yokes was conducted in selected agroclimatic zones of Maharashtra, and the observed variations in dimensions, weight, surface finish, and fit were considered during design development. Improved yokes were subsequently evaluated using three pairs of Red Kandhari, Deoni, and local bullocks. Performance indicators included draft, operating speed, field efficiency, power output, weeding efficiency, operating time, cost, and physiological response. Physiological observations included respiration rate, pulse rate, body temperature, and signs of fatigue during work. Compared with local yokes, the improved designs reduced draft by 9.35–9.97% during harrowing, 8.14–9.09% during interculture, and 9.12–10.09% during cart operations. Operating speed increased by 4.62–5.16%, 4.57–5.60%, and 4.46–5.25%, respectively. Harrowing field efficiency ranged from 71.64 to 78.71%, while interculture field efficiency ranged from 79.19 to 80.57%. Interculture weeding efficiency was 86.08–86.41%, and the time required to cover one hectare was 4.14–4.99 h. The improved yokes also had lower weights and smoother, better-contoured contact surfaces. Under the tested conditions, the designs provided more suitable neck–hump contact and supported efficient use of draught animal power for field and transport operations.