The maize Kharif arrivals for the 2024-25 marketing season, which runs from October to September, have begun strongly. Major contributing states include Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Telangana, Haryana, Gujarat, and Punjab. As of October 16, 2024, maize arrivals have reached 376.33 thousand tonnes, compared to 260.72 thousand tonnes during the same period last year, reflecting a 44% increase.

This year’s higher arrivals are driven by increased domestic demand and the growing focus on ethanol production. India’s commitment to achieving a 20% ethanol blend target (E20) by April 2025 has further fueled the demand for maize, a key raw material in ethanol production.

Madhya Pradesh Arrivals
As of October 16, 2024, Madhya Pradesh has emerged as the leading state in maize production, achieving a remarkable output of approximately 136.32 thousand tonnes, reflecting a 90% increase. Bumper arrivals of maize are expected, particularly in Chhindwara, despite incomplete preparations. Kusmeli, the Chhindwara district’s key agricultural market, has witnessed the highest maize arrivals over the past two and a half months.

In Guna, the total agricultural output for this period was 35,000 quintals, of which 30,000 quintals were maize. However, adverse weather conditions and the need for farmers to arrange funds ahead of Diwali have hampered their ability to store produce effectively. (Source-Dainik Bhaskar)