Although maize is not a common crop in Kerala, the Animal Husbandry department is considering expanding its cultivation to more areas in order to produce low-cost fodder. Maize is a staple ruminant feed and its quality can have a significant impact on milk yield and composition.
The raw material, a major component of cattle feed, is sourced by Kerala from other states, and dairy farmers are concerned about the recent price increase. Following the success of a pilot project, the department is now attempting to popularise maize cultivation, and Kerala Feeds Limited (KFL) will offer a price above the market rate to procure the crop.
“Because we do not produce soyabean and maize, we are completely reliant on other states for raw materials. Despite being an important cereal crop, we were unsure whether large-scale maize cultivation was feasible in Kerala. We started farming on five acres of land in Muthalamada, Palakkad, as an experiment, and it was a success.
“We are currently identifying plots across the State to cultivate the crop, and quality seeds will be made available to farmers through the KFL,” said J. Chinchurani, Minister for Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development.
