Muzaffarpur (Bihar) [India], May 3: The Government of India is taking bold steps to revolutionize agricultural practices and bolster ethanol production, aiming to achieve a 20% ethanol blending target by the fiscal year 2025-26. Central to this mission is the promotion of maize cultivation nationwide, emphasizing its sustainability and economic benefits.
In a concerted effort to support farmers and ensure a smooth transition, the government has instituted assured procurement mechanisms for maize at Minimum Support Price (MSP). This initiative extends to farmers, Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs). Direct benefit transfers to farmers’ bank accounts further safeguard their interests, ensuring fair compensation for their produce.
Maize cultivation offers multifaceted advantages, including lower water requirements compared to traditional crops like rice and sugarcane, reduced labor intensity, and simplified harvesting processes. Additionally, cultivating maize on permanent beds minimizes soil disturbance, enhancing soil health and water retention capacity while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
To galvanize this initiative, a farmer registration drive was organized jointly by the National Cooperative Consumers’ Federation of India (NCCF), the National Seed Corporation Limited (NSC), JEEVIKA Bihar and the Bank of Baroda (BoB). Ms. Anice Joseph Chandra (IRS), Managing Director of the NCCF, spearheaded this drive in Bihar, highlighting the pivotal role of maize cultivation in meeting ethanol demands and bolstering farmers’ income security.
“Maize presents a promising opportunity for our farmers and the ethanol industry,” stated MD NCCF Ms. Anice Joseph Chandra. “By promoting maize cultivation, we not only bolster our ethanol blending targets but also contribute to the economic well-being of our agricultural stakeholders.”
Furthermore, Mr. Ashutosh Mishra, CEO of Agribid Pvt Ltd., emphasized the company’s commitment to empowering farmers and facilitating the procurement of various commodities in collaboration with NCCF. Agribid Private Limited’s association underscores the collaborative efforts driving agricultural transformation and economic empowerment.
As part of the government’s comprehensive strategy, essential support and incentives will be provided to assist farmers in adopting modern farming techniques and optimizing yields. This holistic approach aims to boost agricultural productivity, stabilize commodity prices, and propel India towards its renewable energy goals.
The Government of India remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth within the agricultural sector. Through strategic interventions and cohesive efforts, India is poised to embark on a path towards a more environmentally conscious and economically prosperous future.
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