Diversity: A maize-ing crop for the future

Experts discuss longevity, multiple uses for crop.

FAISALABAD: Maize will become the top-cultivated crop in the world by 2020, due to its nutrient values and increase in imports from China. It was echoed by experts at the international colloquium titled opportunities and challenges of maize production arranged by the Plant Breeding and Genetics Department, University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) on Wednesday.

Chairing the session, UAF Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan said that maize is the most versatile crop that can be grown in more than 166 countries. He told the audience that its global production has increased more than 12 times in the last five decades.

“Before the green revolution, maize flour was used by people as it was economical as compared to wheat,” he said. “In the modern era, roti is made from maize to address the issue of hunger.”

Punjab DG Research Dr Abid Mahmood said keeping food security in mind, maize is the crop of the future. He said that all steps are being taken to enhance its productivity through research.

Faculty of Agriculture Dean Professor Dr Muhammad Arshad stressed the need to put the research focus on tangible outcomes to ensure the food security in the county. He said maize was the third biggest food crop and also a major crop in many countries due to its multiple uses and high yield.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 16^th, 2014.

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