Introduction and Significance

Maize, or corn, is one of the most versatile cereal crops grown in India, with its utility spanning food, feed, and industrial applications. It is cultivated across the country in diverse seasons—Kharif, Rabi, and spring—with leading producer states including Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Bihar. Its economic importance has grown exponentially, driven by its immense demand as a primary ingredient in poultry and animal feed. Furthermore, it is a key raw material for the starch industry, and its use in food processing for products like cornflakes, popcorn, and corn oil is expanding rapidly. For many tribal and rural communities, particularly in hilly regions, it remains a staple food grain. Nutritionally, maize is a good source of carbohydrates and provides essential nutrients like Vitamin B, magnesium, and dietary fibre.

Maize farmers in India navigate a complex set of agronomic and economic challenges. Climatic risks are a primary concern; the crop is sensitive to both drought stress, especially during the critical flowering stage, and waterlogging in heavy rainfall areas. It is also a target for numerous pests, with the recent invasion of the Fall Armyworm (FAW) proving particularly devastating and difficult to control, significantly increasing pesticide costs. Post-harvest losses due to moisture and fungal contamination are another pressing concern, leading to quality degradation and price reduction. While demand is high, farmers often struggle with price volatility, as market rates are dictated by the feed industry's demand and import-export policies, leaving individual growers with limited bargaining power.