ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research

Crop Production Division

The Crop Production Division of the ICAR–Indian Institute of Maize Research (IIMR), Ludhiana is engaged in research aimed at enhancing the sustainability, productivity, and profitability of maize-based cropping systems, with a special focus on the western Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP). A major thrust of the division is the development and assessment of conservation agriculture–based maize–wheat cropping systems, emphasizing minimal soil disturbance, residue management, and efficient resource use to improve soil health, input-use efficiency, and system resilience.

The division evaluates diverse agronomic and crop management practices to optimize system productivity and profitability and refines best production practices for maize under varying agro-ecological conditions. Advanced tools such as image analysis and remote sensing are employed for maize area estimation, yield forecasting, and stress detection, supporting precision agriculture.

The division also undertakes research on soil and nutrient management, including zinc supplementation for enhanced biomass quality and its potential application in cellulosic ethanol production, thereby contributing to sustainable agriculture and bioenergy initiatives.