Kharif maize, also known as monsoon maize, is an important crop grown during the summer season in India. It plays a crucial role in meeting the country’s food and feed demands and contributes significantly to the agricultural economy. Kharif maize is grown using both irrigated and rainfed techniques, and there are several varieties available to farmers for optimal cultivation. In this article, we will explore the different varieties of kharif maize grown under irrigated and rainfed conditions.
Irrigated Kharif Maize:
1. Ganga 101: This is a popular irrigated kharif maize variety known for its high-yielding potential. Ganga 101 matures in about 110-115 days and produces a high-quality grain. It is resistant to diseases like leaf blight and stem rot, making it a preferred choice for farmers practicing irrigation farming.
2. NK 6240: This irrigated kharif maize variety is widely cultivated due to its excellent yield potential and adaptability to various agro-climatic conditions. With a maturity period of around 110-115 days, NK 6240 exhibits tolerance to various pests and diseases, including downy mildew and leaf blight.
3. Bio 9685: Developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), Bio 9685 is a hybrid irrigated maize variety known for its high nutritional content. It has a maturity period of approximately 105-110 days and exhibits resistance against prevalent diseases like leaf blight, stem borer, and downy mildew.
Rainfed Kharif Maize:
1. Shaktiman 1: Shaktiman 1 is a rainfed kharif maize hybrid known for its rainfed adaptability and good yield potential. It has a maturity period of around 110-120 days and exhibits resistance to pests like stem borer and leaf blight. Shaktiman 1 is cultivated widely in rainfed areas of the country.
2. Samrat: This rainfed kharif maize variety is well-suited for regions receiving medium to low rainfall. Samrat has a maturity period of approximately 110-115 days and shows tolerance to drought conditions. It offers good grain quality and is resistant to pests like shoot fly and leaf blight.
3. Deccan 103: Developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Deccan 103 is a rainfed maize variety suitable for regions with low soil moisture retention capacity. It matures in about 100-105 days and exhibits tolerance to drought, making it an excellent choice for rainfed areas.
It is important for farmers to choose the right variety of kharif maize based on their specific agro-climatic conditions and farming techniques. These aforementioned varieties are just a few among the many options available to farmers for irrigated and rainfed kharif maize cultivation. Proper selection, coupled with appropriate agronomic practices, can help maximize yields and ensure successful harvests, ultimately contributing to food security and the agricultural economy of the country.