Maize is the third most important food grain in Pakistan, with an annual production of 11 million tons in an area of 1.72 million hectares. 10 million is produced in Punjab, and the remaining 1 million tons are produced in KPK. If you want to check its global value, then you must know that 50 kinds of corn is available in the world and based on different textures, colours, sizes, and shapes. It is available in red, yellow, and white preferred by people, and depends on the regions. It is a major crop after rice, textile, wheat, and sugarcane. As per the estimate, if it is sown in 1 million hectares in an area, then production will be 3.5 million metric tons. 60 percent will be used as dairy animals, and the rest will be used as food for humans.
The Growing Importance of Maize Cultivation
Maize is also called corn, and its cultivation if is due to rapid change and increase in demand of feed, food, and industrial sectors. Maize grain is not only a staple food or feed; it is also a source of income for many farmers and rural communities. We should pay thanks to the latest technology as it is getting better with the passageof time including better farming techniques, hybrid seeds, and technological adoption.
Historical Background and Expansion of Cultivation
It was grown in New Mexico 2000 B.C by the Asian. Maize was grown in rainy areas, used for household purposes. Farmers in Pakistan (Punjab & KP) started shifting to high-yield hybrids, which provide improvement and productivity. In 1992, hybrid seed technology was introduced in this sector. Punjab became the leading producer of maize production region in Pakistan however, Kasur, Shaiwal, Okara, Faisalabad, and Sheikhupra became hubs of commercial maize because of reliable irrigation, fertile soil, and easy access to the market. KP remains a major contributor, especially in Mardan, Swabi, Mansehra, Charsadda which is part of cropping patterns.
Maize Production and Farming Conditions
It is grown well in Pakistan due to its adaptability to soil types and different climates. It grows due to its loamy clay and is rich in organic matter. Maize grown in warm climate so you will see it in summer season. A better result is possible due to proper sowing, effective pest management, balanced fertilizers, timely sowing, and proper management, farmers can also compare it with other crops to get output. It has different names like Turkish-wheat, Asian Corn, Roman Corn, Barbary, Sicilian Com and Guinea Com, etc.
Spread of Maize Cultivation& Impact:
Pakistan has expanded maize grain production; it is cultivated in different regions of Pakistan and other parts of the world. This crop was introduced by the US and reached Europe in the sixteenth century. Its cultivation has an impact on agricultural practices. Maize supports millions of people due to its easy cultivation method and growth. Nowadays, maize is 3rd important crop all over the world after rice and wheat.
Utilization of Maize
Maize is used as animal feed for human consumption, and for industrial purpose. Some industries have wet& dry milling to manage variety of products. People grind it to make other food items like tortillas, bakery items and cooking oil. It will produce ethanol and high-fructose corn syrup for sweet items. It is considered main source of calories n feed formulation and animal feeding. It can be mixed with other materials to make a healthy meal as per requirements. For example, 66% maize grain is used for animal feed in Pakistan & 80% in the USA for animal feeding.
Maize in Modern Times:
In this modern century, we can achieve our targets and best result with the help of latest technology, for which we are thankful. Maize is produced in tons and feed billion of people in the world. It is not only a food crop, but it is healthy and essential as well. It is produced in many countries as it is a very important crop for dairy animal feed throughout the year. Moreover, the technology has solved many problems like quality, pest control, and disease-resistance plants. It is filled with innovation, utilization, and conversion.
Major Uses of Maize Grain in Pakistan
- Poultry Feed
- Livestock Feed
- Starch and Industrial Products
- Food Products
Challenges in the Maize Sector
- Limited access to quality hybrid seeds in remote areas
- Price fluctuations affecting farmers’ profitability
- Water shortages in some regions
- Post-harvest losses due to improper drying and storage
- Increase in input costs, including fertilizers and pesticides
Muhammad Arif CEO, MBA in Finance and Marketing from South Korea University. 15 years plus experience in Agriculture Waste and Animal Feed Production, Facility Management & Export