Magical maize: Poor starch extractability, post-harvest woes threaten biofuel efficiency
India’s maize production rose to 425 lakh tonnes in 2024–25, driven by government support and rising ethanol demand. Madhya Pradesh led overall output, Bihar in rabi, and West Bengal in zaid season. With higher yields, low water use, and no staple-food conflict, maize is ideal for grain-based ethanol. By 2030–31, 21% of maize may fuel ethanol production.
Maize is considered a superior biofuel crop compared to others, such as sugarcane, rice, and foodgrains. Its advantages come from its cropping pattern, higher production potential, and lower water needs. Since maize is not a staple food like rice or wheat, the issue of food versus fuel is less of a concern. It can be used as feed for grain-based ethanol production. The government has boosted maize production, leading to an increase in both acreage and output.
Five States are primarily involved in growing maize during the kharif, rabi, and zaid seasons. In 2025, Madhya Pradesh led in overall maize production with 58 lakh tonnes, while Bihar had the highest rabi maize production of 33 lakh tonnes. West Bengal topped the spring (zaid) production with 12 lakh tonnes. Other producing States include Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra.
Total maize production for 2024-25 reached 425 lakh tonnes from 390 lakh tonnes a year ago. The Indian Institute of Maize Research (IIMR) estimates that by 2030-31, about 21 per cent of maize will be used for ethanol.
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Source : The Hindu Business line
