MILLET MAIZE ETHANOL #AgricultureNews

This season, farmers appear to be shifting their crop preference, choosing maize over chickpea (gram) in significant numbers. According to early agricultural trends, maize cultivation is gaining strong momentum, driven by expectations of better market prices, lower input costs, and favorable weather patterns.

The poultry industry has urged the government to grant approval for the import of genetically modified (GM) maize as a measure to ease the growing pressure on feed costs and supply shortages.

Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has announced that it will convene a high-level meeting with distilleries and ethanol manufacturers to address the growing concerns over the maize crisis affecting farmers across the state.

Farmers have raised concerns over persistent technical issues occurring during the registration process for the ongoing maize procurement drive. According to the applicants, glitches in the system are preventing them from completing their registration, causing delays and uncertainty.

Maize farmers across several regions are facing severe distress as market prices have plunged drastically, falling far below the Minimum Support Price (MSP) as well as the basic cost of production. The sudden price crash has left cultivators worried about recovering even their input expenses such as seeds, fertilizer, labour, and transportation.

This move is expected to benefit small and medium-scale farmers who often struggle to sell their produce at fair prices in the open market.

In a move aimed at supporting farmers and stabilizing maize prices, the Karnataka government has announced an increase in the maize procurement limit to 50 quintals per farmer.

Many say the decision now appears risky, as maize is more sensitive to low temperatures during its early growth phase. Agricultural experts note that cold stress can delay germination, reduce plant height, and ultimately impact grain formation.

They have warned that continued inaction could lead to protests if farmers’ issues are not addressed promptly. Officials, however, have stated that steps are being taken to resolve the issue and streamline the procurement process. 🌾🗣️

The government’s transparent and farmer-friendly policies have built trust, encouraging more farmers to sell directly to government procurement centers, ensuring timely payments and better prices.

China, which long dominated rice production, was surpassed this year as India’s rice output outpaced it. The achievement reflects continued policy support, adoption of improved farming techniques, and sustained efforts by the Indian farming community.

The provincial leadership emphasized that embracing climate-resilient crops is critical for sustainable agriculture and long-term food security.