Research Goals and Thrust Area

Research Goals

To enhance productivity and sustainability of maize cultivation in India though research and development

Thrust Area

Research activities are divided into four major Mega Programmes (MP), each having various inter-discipline research Sub Programmes.

MP 1: Increased productivity, better quality and stress tolerance through genetic improvement

Sub Prog.1: Broadening genetic base of heterotic groups.

Sub Prog.2: Genetic enhancement for specialty corn (sweet corn, baby corn, popcorn, high amylase/ amylopectin) and fodder maize.

Sub Prog.3: Bio-fortification for improved food quality (Protein and Minerals/Vitamins)

Sub Prog.4: Genetic improvement for biotic and abiotic stress tolerance

Sub Prog.5: Deployment of modern tools to increase breeding efficiency.

MP 2: Enhanced production, productivity and profitability of maize cultivation

Sub Prog.1: Development of high yielding, profitable and ecologically sustainable maize-based farming systems

Sub Prog.2: Foster precision input management for higher productivity, profitability and environmental sustainability

Sub Prog.3: Popularization of resource conservation technologies in maize cropping systems

Sub Prog.4: Development of maize value chain through value addition and market linkages

MP 3: Accelerated seed replacement

Sub Prog.1: Identification of seed production sites and seed technological interventions for enhanced sees production.

Sub Prog.2: Upscaling public bred single cross hybrids seed production through PPP mode

MP 4: Technology outreach and networking

Sub Prog. 1: Technology dissemination through FLDs, training, etc.

Sub Prog. 2: Build new robust partnerships for science, product development and stewardship.