Retail Tractor Sales January 2026: India Records Explosive 22.9% Growth

The Indian tractor industry has started 2026 on a high note, delivering a powerhouse performance that reflects deep-rooted confidence in the rural economy. According to the latest retail data from the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), tractor sales in January 2026 reached an impressive 1,14,759 units, compared to 93,386 units in the same month last year.

This 22.9% year-on-year surge signals a robust recovery driven by healthy rural cash flows, favourable harvest cycles, and an increasing trend toward farm mechanisation.

The Market Leaders: Battle of the Giants

Mahindra & Mahindra (Tractor Division) continues to sit at the top of the leaderboard. With 26,006 units sold this January (up from 22,073 last year), Mahindra remains the favourite choice for Indian farmers. 

However, despite a 17.8% volume growth, its market share saw a minor correction as the broader market expanded even faster.

Swaraj Tractors, a division of Mahindra, emerged as one of the strongest gainers. Selling 21,920 units, Swaraj captured a 19.10% market share, proving that its "made-for-India" rugged appeal continues to resonate deeply with farmers across the country.

Brand-Wise Breakdown: Who Gained the Most?

The January report highlights a clear shift: while almost all major brands grew, a few outpaced the industry average significantly.

Sonalika Tractors: Secured third place with 15,379 units, growing by a healthy 25.1%. Its market share nudged upward to 13.40%.

TAFE Group: A consistent performer, TAFE sold 13,459 units, maintaining a steady 11.73% market share and showing strong growth over last year’s 10,843 units.

Escorts Kubota: The star of the month in terms of growth rate, Escorts Kubota sold 12,313 units—a massive 34.8% jump—increasing its market share to 10.73%.

John Deere& Eicher: John Deere moved 8,082 units, while Eicher recorded a brilliant 31.2% growth with 7,815 units, further consolidating the mid-range segment.

New Holland: More farmers are turning to CNH Industrial, as New Holland sales climbed to 5,387 units, a sharp 34.4% increase.

The "Big Brand" Consolidation

A fascinating takeaway from the FADA January 2026 report is the decline of smaller, unorganised players. The "Others" category saw sales drop to 4,398 units, a 14.1% decrease.

Expert Insight: Modern farmers are no longer just looking for a machine; they are looking for a partner. The shift toward top brands like Mahindra, Swaraj, and Escorts Kubota shows that reliability, advanced technology (like TREM V-ready engines), and strong after-sales service are now the primary drivers of purchase decisions.

Why Is the Market Booming?

Several factors have converged to create this "Green Revolution" in sales:

Healthy Rural Liquidity: Strong harvest income and wedding season demand have flushed the rural market with cash.

Mechanisation Push: Labour shortages and rising wages are making tractors essential even for smaller landholdings.

Future-Proofing: With new emission norms (TREM V) on the horizon for April 2026, many farmers are buying trusted current models now.

Conclusion

January 2026 has set a golden benchmark for the rest of the year. With 72% of dealers expecting continued growth through February, the tractor industry is undoubtedly the engine driving India’s rural prosperity.