Bhubaneswar : ILS holds workshop on cultivating biofortified maize for farmers of 2 dists
The Institute of Life Sciences (ILS), Bhubaneswar, launched a training program on biofortified maize cultivation in Nabarangpur and Koraput districts under the Biotech-Kisan project. The program highlighted the success of HQPM5 maize enriched with provitamin A, zinc, and amino acids, cultivated across 30 acres in the kharif season, with plans to expand to 100 acres in rabi. The initiative aims to improve nutrition and farmer incomes. Over 100 farmers attended, receiving seeds and training in sustainable practices. Value-addition prospects were also discussed.
Koraput: Institute of Life Sciences (BRIC-ILS), Bhubaneswar, on Monday launched an awareness and training programme on biofortified maize cultivation in Nabarangpur and Koraput districts.The programme, conducted under the department of biotechnology-funded Biotech-Kisan project, showcased the successful cultivation of HQPM5 maize across 30 acres during the kharif season. Officials announced plans to expand the cultivation to 100 acres in the current rabi season, responding to growing farmer demand.”Biofortified maize is a game-changer for rural areas where balanced nutrition remains a challenge,” said Rajeev Swain, senior scientist of BRIC-ILS. He emphasized this variety, enriched with provitamin A, essential amino acids and zinc, offers superior nutritional benefits compared to conventional maize. Scientist of Indian Institute of Maize Research (IIMR), Ludhiana, Romen Sharma highlighted value-addition opportunities through maize-based products like biscuits, chocolates and cakes, presenting additional income source for farmers.
Nabarangpur MP Balabhadra Majhi, who attended the event along with MLA Gouri Shankar Majhi, urged farmers to prioritise crops offering both economic and nutritional benefits. “This initiative will significantly improve farmer livelihoods while addressing critical nutritional gaps in our region,” the MP said. Over 100 farmers participated in the workshop and received free biofortified maize seeds and training in sustainable agricultural practices. The programme is a part of ongoing efforts to introduce modern farming technology at the grassroots level.
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Source Link : Times Of India
