The 11th Edition of the India Maize Summit 2025, organized by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), commenced today at Federation House, New Delhi, with an inaugural address by Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. The Summit, since its inception in 2013, has established itself as a premier national platform bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and progressive farmers to deliberate on the evolving landscape of India’s maize sector.
This year’s edition continues to foster dialogue on enhancing productivity, innovation, market access, and sustainability in maize cultivation and value chains.
Welcoming Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Jyoti Vij, Director General of FICCI, presented a Green Certificate, symbolizing a commitment to sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.
In his keynote address, Chouhan emphasized the importance of sustainable agricultural practices, warning against the overexploitation of land resources. “Agriculture should be practiced consciously, with a view to safeguarding the interests of future generations,” he stated. “We must ensure that in our pursuit of higher yields, we do not render our soil infertile. Sustainable practices are essential to preserve our agricultural legacy.”
He reiterated the government's commitment to food security, farmer income enhancement, and nutritious food access for all. Highlighting maize as the third largest crop in India, the Minister acknowledged the productivity challenges the sector faces compared to global standards and underscored the need for research and innovation. “India lacks in maize productivity and starch content; therefore, continuous research is vital,” he noted. “ICAR has developed 265 new maize varieties, including 77 hybrids. We are actively working to ensure maize farmers receive better prices and are supported in reducing per-hectare production costs.”
The Minister made a strong appeal for collaborative action and policy input, urging stakeholders to work together toward unified agricultural development:
“I wanted to request FICCI to discuss intensively and send me recommendations… We want to create a team for farming. We need to work in different directions, including the state government, central government, scientists, farmers, agricultural universities, and industry.”
“I believe in ‘One Nation, One Agriculture,’ and ‘One Agriculture, One Team.’ With everyone’s effort, a single team should be formed that works in one direction. Then we can develop rapidly. That’s why, when FICCI’s recommendations arrive, I will take them seriously. But there should be a win-win situation. Farmers should also benefit…”
During the event, progressive farmers were felicitated for their outstanding contributions to maize cultivation, showcasing the ground-level success stories that are shaping India’s agricultural future.
