Jharkhand: Maize gains importance in ethanol push, scientists call for higher output and climate-resilient varieties
Maize is emerging as a key crop linking agriculture and energy in India, driven by rising ethanol blending. Experts stress boosting production through climate-resilient hybrids and research collaboration. With growing demand from feed and biofuel sectors, higher maize output can help reduce crude oil imports and strengthen farm incomes.
Ranchi: As India accelerates ethanol blending in petrol to cut dependence on crude oil imports, maize is emerging as a key crop linking agriculture and energy needs, experts said at a national workshop held at Birsa Agricultural University, The Jharkhand Story reported.
The three-day workshop, organised under the All India Coordinated Research Project on Maize, concluded on Saturday with scientists stressing the need to boost production and develop climate-resilient hybrid varieties.
During the valedictory session, Vice-Chancellor Dr SC Dubey highlighted the importance of strengthening research on hybrid maize in collaboration with the private sector. He called for developing varieties that are resistant to diseases, adaptable to changing weather conditions and nutritionally rich, with higher protein and starch content.
He noted that nearly half of the country’s maize output is currently used as animal feed, while increased ethanol blending is expected to drive further demand. Improving maize production, he said, could help reduce India’s crude oil import bill.
Dr HS Jat, Director of the Indian Institute of Maize Research, said 39 improved maize varieties have been identified for release across different regions. These include varieties suited for sweet corn, popcorn, baby corn, biofuel use and nutrient-rich crops, with most recommended for the Kharif season.
The workshop reviewed achievements for 2025 and outlined a roadmap for future research, focusing on increasing productivity and expanding cultivation under changing climatic conditions.
More than 250 scientists from 37 agricultural universities and institutions, along with industry representatives and farmers, participated in the event, reflecting the growing importance of maize in both the agriculture and energy sectors.
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Source : Chinimandi
