‘A-mazing’ offer on ‘Maize’ Seeds!
In line with the policy of the central agriculture ministry to promote maize farming in India, Bihar state Government is set to offer a mega discount offer on Hybrid Maize Seeds. According to sources, to give a significant boost to maize farmers, the government is soon launching a program to distribute hybrid maize seeds straightaway at a 50% discount. This initiative will take place at various block e-Kisan Bhawan premises in the Samastipur district.
According to a recent report published by the Directorate of Maize Research; in India, maize is the third most important food crop after rice and wheat. Cultivated mainly during the Kharif season (June to September) Maize produce covers 80% area. In addition to employing over 100 million man-days in the agricultural and industrial sectors downstream, maize provides around 9% of the country’s food basket and over Rs. 100 billion to the agricultural GDP at current rates in India.
Despite of these, Total maize production in India for the kharif and rabi seasons is down to 32.47 million MT from 35.36 million MT last year. Hence in order to make up this gap the government is coming up with several schemes to encourage maize farmers.
Once the new discount offer is active, farmers within the designated clusters can purchase these hybrid seeds for just Rs 80 per kg, down from the usual Rs 160 per kg. However, the subsidised seeds will only be available to farmers from specific revenue villages identified as clusters by block agriculture officers and coordinators.
To find out if their village is included in the cluster, farmers need to contact their local block agriculture officer or agriculture coordinator.
If their village is part of the cluster, farmers must register and apply online through the agriculture coordinator. Upon successful application and approval, they will receive a demand number via mobile, which they can present at the local agriculture office to obtain the discounted seeds.
This year, the department has emphasised the importance of cluster-level maize cultivation. Farmers will receive a total of 8 kg of seeds per acre, costing Rs 640 at the subsidised rate. The aim is to promote efficient farming practices and improve yields.
In recent years, maize farming in India has seen a shift towards hybrid varieties due to their higher yield potential and resilience against pests and diseases. Government initiatives and subsidies have encouraged farmers to adopt these hybrids, leading to increased production and profitability. Additionally, advancements in agricultural technology and practices, such as precision farming and better irrigation methods, have further boosted maize cultivation. Programs like the one in Samastipur are part of a broader effort to modernise agriculture and support farmers in achieving sustainable growth.
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