Programme held to boost maize production at Abohar

The Indian Institute of Maize Research (ICAR), Ludhiana, organised a “Field Day on Maize Programme” under the project “Enhancement of Maize Production in Catchment Areas of Ethanol Industries” in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra. The event took place at Bazidpur Kattianwali village here and was funded by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.

Experts highlighted maize has become a strategically important commercial crop in India due to its use in ethanol production, which is blended with petrol, as well as its role in poultry feed. The Central Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, is committed to increasing maize production, setting a target of 20 per cent ethanol blending by 2025-2026. The initiative aims to support farmers by providing high-quality seeds and essential knowledge to optimise maize yields. With an estimated demand of over 10 million tonnes of maize for ethanol production in 2024-25, the programme holds significant potential for enhancing maize cultivation.

The programme began with a detailed presentation on advanced maize farming techniques, focusing on sustainable practices and the benefits of using superior seed varieties. Farmers were also educated about aflatoxin-free maize production methods, ensuring suitability for industrial uses such as bioethanol and animal feed. The importance of maize in ethanol production and its economic contribution to local communities was also emphasized.

SL Jat, senior scientist at ICAR, expressed satisfaction with the results of the front-line demonstrations and noted the potential for expanding maize cultivation in Fazilka, Bathinda and Faridkot regions. Raman Sharma, BS Jat, scientists from ICAR Ludhiana and Arvind Ahlawat and Prakash Chand Gurjar also underscored the importance of such initiatives for the region’s agricultural development.

Parminder Singh engaged with farmers, explaining the vital role of maize in promoting sustainable agriculture and ensuring livelihood security. The event provided farmers with an opportunity to voice their concerns and seek expert advice on maize cultivation and related practices.