The Toy Tractor Factor

Tractors are prized possessions in Punjab. They figure in politicians' affidavits among their modest 'assets' and as poll symbols. With the poll fever, these are now valued collectibles not only among children but also NRIs. Makers of these little mock-ups in Muktsar, Abohar, Barnala and Sangrur are using politician as brand names.

Names of all Punjab politics top guns are stuck on these brightly coloured mini tractors: CM Parkash Singh Badal, deputy CM Sukhbir Badal, his rebel cousin Manpreet and Congress chief Captain Amarinder Singh.

"This month belongs to elections. We read that many leaders declared that tractors were the only vehicles they owned. That's how the idea came to us," says Avtar Singh, toyshop owner who makes handcrafted wooden toys near Muktsar.

Made mostly of metal and wood with rubber or plastic wheels, the tractors are painstakingly made, including shift levers and hitches similar to the originals. Some are sold in colourful boxes with descriptions in English and Punjabi.

They sell at between Rs 70 and Rs 500 a piece, depending on the quality. "If the government can't help our cottage industry , we'll bank on names of politicians to promote our small industry. What's wrong in that," asks Kuldeep Bains, a shop owner.