1. Introduction to Tea Harvesting
Tea is one of the most popular beverages globally, with its cultivation being a major livelihood for millions. In countries like India, China, Sri Lanka, Kenya, and Japan, tea is grown in large hilly plantations, where the tea leaves must be plucked carefully by hand.
Traditionally, tea plucking is done manually, which is:
- Labour-intensive
- Time-consuming
- Expensive
- Fatigue-inducing for workers
In response to these problems, modern technology has introduced tea plucking machines such as the Sharp Garuda Tea Picker, which significantly improve productivity and reduce costs.
2. Need for Mechanized Tea Pluckers
The modern tea industry faces several challenges:
- Labour shortage in rural regions
- Increasing labour costs
- Need for consistent quality and timely plucking
- Low productivity due to traditional methods
Battery-operated pluckers such as the Sharp Garuda Tea Picker are designed to solve these issues by offering:
- Ease of operation
- Efficiency in large-scale plucking
- Cost reduction
- Scalability for small and large plantations
3. Overview of Sharp Garuda Tea Picker
The Sharp Garuda Tea Picker is a cordless, battery-operated, handheld plucking machine built for efficient tea leaf harvesting. Designed with ergonomics and field conditions in mind, it ensures:
- Gentle leaf plucking without damage
- Long battery backup
- Easy handling
- Rechargeability for sustainable use
It is ideal for:
- Small-scale tea growers
- Medium-sized estates
- Women self-help groups
- Commercial tea farming operations
4. Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Sharp Garuda Tea Picker |
| Power Source | Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery |
| Battery Capacity | 12V / 24V, 2000–4000 mAh (depending on model) |
| Charging Time | 3–4 hours |
| Run Time | 3–5 hours continuous use |
| Motor Type | DC Brushless Motor |
| Blade Type | Stainless Steel Serrated Cutting Blade |
| Weight | Approx. 1.8 kg |
| Noise Level | Low (less than 60 dB) |
| Plucking Speed | 5–10 times faster than manual plucking |
| Plucking Capacity | 15–25 kg per day per worker (manual is 5–8kg) |
5. Design and Build Quality
The Sharp Garuda Tea Picker is thoughtfully engineered for long-term durability and field efficiency.
- Ergonomic handle: Designed for continuous usage
- Lightweight body: Prevents fatigue
- Rugged plastic housing: Weather-resistant
- Stainless steel blades: Rust-free and durable
- Compact and portable: Easy to carry around plantations
6. Working Mechanism
The machine works using a powered blade and suction mechanism. Here’s how it functions:
- The operator holds the device near the tea bush.
- When switched on, the motor activates the blades.
- Leaves are gently cut using the rotating serrated blades.
- A small vacuum suction system pulls the leaves into a collection bag.
- The plucked leaves are gathered neatly with minimal damage.
7. Features and Benefits
✅ Key Features:
- Cordless design
- Rechargeable battery
- One-hand operation
- Quiet motor
- Safe to use
- Blade guard for protection
- Replaceable battery and blades
✅ Major Benefits:
- Time-Saving: Pluck more leaves in less time
- Cost-Efficient: Reduces the need for large labour teams
- Better Leaf Quality: Uniform plucking, no damage
- Lightweight: Can be used by both men and women
- Environment-Friendly: No fuel or emissions
- Low Maintenance: Simple to clean and maintain
8. Battery Details and Charging
- Battery Type: Rechargeable Lithium-ion
- Capacity: Up to 4000mAh
- Run Time: 3–5 hours on full charge
- Charger: Provided with auto cut-off
- Charge Indicator: LED light shows charge level
- Spare Battery Option: Available for full-day operation
Charging requires a standard 220V outlet, and batteries should be:
- Kept dry
- Charged only with the given adapter
- Not overcharged or overheated
9. Performance Review
🔹 Efficiency:
- In tests, a single worker using the Sharp Garuda Picker plucked up to 22 kg of tea leaves/day, compared to 7 kg manually.
🔹 Consistency:
- Tea leaves were found to be of more uniform size and free from stem breakage, improving final tea quality.
🔹 Fatigue Reduction:
- Workers reported lower hand and shoulder pain, enabling longer plucking hours.
10. Comparison with Manual Plucking
| Feature | Manual Plucking | Sharp Garuda Picker |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | 5–8 kg/day | 15–25 kg/day |
| Labour Need | High | Low |
| Precision | Medium | High |
| Fatigue | High | Low |
| Cost | Recurring wages | One-time investment |
| Leaf Damage | More | Minimal |
11. Comparison with Other Brands
| Feature | Sharp Garuda | Generic Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Backup | 3–5 hours | 1–2 hours |
| Blade Quality | Stainless Steel | Often rust-prone |
| Motor Efficiency | High Torque Brushless | Basic motors |
| Warranty Support | Yes | Often missing |
| Noise Level | Low | Medium to High |
| Spares Availability | Easily Available | Difficult to source |
12. Price and Availability
The Sharp Garuda Tea Picker is available:
- Online (Amazon, Flipkart, Agri-equipment sites)
- Offline at Agri Tools Stores
💰 Price Range: ₹5,500 – ₹8,500
(Prices may vary by model and battery capacity)
📦 What’s in the Box:
- 1 x Sharp Garuda Tea Picker
- 1 x Battery (attached)
- 1 x Charger
- 1 x Leaf Collector Bag
- User Manual
- Safety Glasses (optional)
13. How to Use the Sharp Garuda Tea Picker
- Charge the battery fully before use.
- Turn on the switch.
- Gently place the blade end on the tea bush.
- Sweep across the top canopy where 2-leaves-and-a-bud are present.
- Collect leaves in the attached bag.
- Turn off the device after use and clean the blades.
14. Safety Instructions
- Wear gloves and safety glasses
- Do not touch blades while running
- Avoid wet conditions while operating
- Keep children away from the device
- Use only original spare parts for replacement
15. Maintenance Guide
- Clean blades after every session using a brush
- Oil the moving parts weekly
- Do not expose to rain
- Store in dry, cool places
- Check battery health monthly
- Replace blades every 3–6 months (based on use)
16. Farmer Testimonials
Raju Naik, Assam: “Earlier I used to hire 5 workers, now with just 2 tea pickers, we manage better and save more.”
Pushpa Devi, Nilgiris: “It’s so light that even I can use it comfortably. The leaf quality is excellent.”
Harish Gowda, Karnataka: “Great product. Got ROI in 1 season itself.”
17. Environmental Impact
- Zero carbon emissions
- No fuel consumption
- Promotes sustainable farming
- No soil or crop disturbance
Unlike petrol-powered harvesters, this device protects the ecosystem of the tea plantation.
18. Government Support/Subsidy
Some state governments and agri-departments provide subsidies (30–60%) under:
- Tea Board India Subsidy Scheme
- SMAM (Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization)
- FPO support schemes
Farmers can apply through:
- District Horticulture Office
- Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK)
- Tea Board Regional Offices
19. Common Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Battery not charging | Check charger, replace battery if old |
| Leaves not collecting properly | Clean the suction system |
| Blade not cutting well | Sharpen or replace blade |
| Device overheating | Use in intervals and ensure airflow |
| Motor noise | Clean internals and check for debris |
20. Final Conclusion
The Sharp Garuda Tea Picker is a revolutionary device that is transforming how tea is harvested in India and abroad. With its ergonomic design, battery-operated cordless power, and exceptional performance, it is ideal for farmers looking to reduce labour dependency, improve productivity, and ensure quality output.
Whether you’re a small tea grower or a plantation manager, this tool offers a cost-effective, sustainable, and easy-to-use solution that aligns with the future of smart agriculture.
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