Tuesday, May 6 2025 | Time 00:28 Hrs(IST)
Business Economy


Maize production to be doubled in UP by 2027

Lucknow, May 5 (UNI) The Uttar Pradesh government in its second term has set a target to double the maize production with efforts being made to expand the cultivated area and enhance productivity per hectare, official sources said here on Monday.
Sources said that Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi recently addressed the state-level Kharif Seminar organised by the department in Lucknow, where he urged farmers to boost the production of key crops, including maize, toor and mustard.
Sources said that the government's sustained encouragement is already yielding positive results. "In the past eight years under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the production of pulses and oilseeds has doubled. "Farmers are also increasingly turning to maize cultivation, drawn by its multipurpose benefits," they said.
Sources said that in 2021–22, maize production in the state stood at 14.67 lakh metric tonnes. "The government aims to increase this to 27.30 lakh metric tonnes within the target period. Efforts are being made to expand the cultivated area and enhance productivity per hectare," they said.
Sources said that maize stands out for its versatility in terms of nutritional value, high yields, suitability for intercropping or industrial applications. "It can be cultivated throughout all seasons and on diverse types of land. The only critical requirement is proper drainage management in the fields," they said.
Sources said that widely used across various industries, maize is crucial in ethanol production, animal and poultry feed, pharmaceuticals, paper manufacturing and alcohol distillation. "Besides, it is consumed in various forms such as corn, flour, baby corn, popcorn and is a key ingredient in many soups and processed foods. Its diverse usage continues to drive the demand," they said.
Sources said that recognising its vast potential, the state government proactively encourages farmers to adopt advanced cultivation techniques. "Awareness campaigns are being conducted to inform farmers about improved farming practices," they said.
Sources said that maize is also included under the Minimum Support Price (MSP) framework to ensure remunerative returns. "Maize is rich in carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins and minerals, so it has earned the title of Queen of Cereals," they said.
In charge of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Belipar (Gorakhpur) Dr SK Tomar said that the optimal window for sowing Kharif maize is from June 15 to July 15. "In areas with irrigation facilities, sowing can begin as early as mid-May, allowing the crop to establish before the onset of heavy rains," he said.
He said that approximately 8 kg of seed is needed per acre. "Line sowing is recommended for better yields, with 60 cm spacing between rows and 20 cm between plants. If available, a bed planter is suggested for sowing," he said.
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