Karnataka is targeting kharif maize output of 3.88 mln tn in 2018-19 (Jul-Jun), higher than 2.83 mln tn produced a year ago. Karnataka is one of the leading producers of kharif maize in the country. Maize output is seen higher due to expectation of increase in acreage and crop yield. Karnataka has set a target of 1.25 mln ha for maize sowing, against 1.18 mln ha in the preceding year. Yield of the coarse grain is aimed at 3,100 kg per ha compared with 2,400 kg in 2017-18. Likelihood of a normal monsoon is expected to boost acreage and yields of various crops this year.