Hyderabad: India should increase its maize production from the current 55 million tonnes to 75 million tonnes over the next decade, while raising productivity by 50%, M L Jat, Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) and Director General of ICAR, said on Monday.
Addressing the inaugural International Maize Conference 2026 in Hyderabad, Jat called for greater adoption of technology, improved crop management and efficient use of resources to bridge yield gaps.
He said agricultural research and extension services must translate into higher farm profitability and better livelihoods. Advocating a farmer-centric approach, he said the traditional focus on food, feed, fodder and fuel should expand to include farmers as the fifth priority.
Jat also stressed the need for affordable, quality seeds, stronger public-sector hybrid production and strategic expansion of maize cultivation without compromising oilseed and pulse production.
ICAR Deputy Director General D K Yadav said 329 maize hybrids had been developed over the past five years and called for stronger research, breeding programmes and collaboration with industry.
The November 2-4 conference is bringing together scientists, policymakers and industry representatives to discuss productivity, innovation and sustainable maize value chains.
