ICRISAT, in partnership with ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research (IIMR), is advancing maize cultivation in Bundelkhand to boost farmer incomes while supporting India’s ethanol economy. A recent awareness and input distribution program under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) – Government of Uttar Pradesh – ICRISAT initiative took place in Tahrauli Tehsil on 27 June 2025, gathering 65 progressive farmers, agricultural scientists, and community leaders to demonstrate maize’s potential as a high-value kharif crop.
Dr Shankar Lal Jat, Senior Scientist at ICAR-IIMR, outlined the Government of India’s strategy to incorporate maize cultivation into ethanol production supply chains across 15 states. The program provides farmers in non-traditional maize-growing areas with free input kits containing high-yielding seeds, herbicides, and pesticides. Dr Jat also announced that the Chitrakoot ethanol plant has begun direct maize procurement from local farmers, guaranteeing fair prices and establishing new market connections.
Dr Ashok Shukla, Associate Scientist at ICRISAT, emphasized maize’s dual benefits as both a climate-resilient crop and a tool for improving soil health through diversified cropping systems. He encouraged farmers to adopt these practices to enhance year-round income while building climate resilience.
Participating farmers expressed strong enthusiasm for adopting scientific maize cultivation methods, anticipating improved incomes, more stable livelihoods, and better integration with India’s expanding ethanol industry.
