With focus shifting on hybrid varieties having higher yield potential, Maize Research Station (MRS) of Anand Agricultural University (AAU) at Godhra has successfully domesticated HM-5 variety of maize for cultivation under the local climatic conditions.

Popular for higher yield and grains of superior quality in north India, it was tested for six years at the Godhra research farm as also in farmers’ field. Its per hectare yield was found to be six tonnes more than any other variety being sown in the state. It has also been found resistant to insects, pests and survive under abiotic conditions as well.

Speaking to The Indian Express, in-charge research scientist and MRS head S M Khanorkar said ‘two tonnes of seeds have already been distributed to the farmers of the region for commercial cultivation during the ongoing rabi season.’ According to him, the yield of HM-5 is more than Prabal, a hybrid maize variety introduced by a private seed company in tribal pockets of the state.

According to Khanorkar, HM-5 has a cylindrical ear against conical ear of the existing varieties, resulting into higher yield and big and uniform size of the grain. The grain texture of HM-5 is white, flint and shining, the most liked by the people in Gujarat. Another reason for its success under the local agro-climatic conditions is that it can be grown in both kharif and rabi seasons.

Its maturity period is also favourable: it is 90 days in kharif or rainy season and 120 days in rabi or winter season. However, yield during rabi season increases by 50 per cent or more due to proper utilisation of fertilisers, micro-nutrients and availability of more sunlight causing good photosynthesis that helps in increasing the size of the grain.

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