PAU inks pact with Rajasthan firm for maize hybrid commercialisation

Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with IFSA Seeds Pvt Ltd, based in Sriganganagar, Rajasthan, for the commercialisation of its high-performing maize hybrid PMH 17. Dr Ajmer Singh Dhatt, director of research, PAU, and R S Pandey, CEO of IFSA Seeds Pvt Ltd, signed the agreement on behalf of their respective organisations.

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Dr GS Mangat, Additional Director Research (Agriculture); Dr Mahesh Kumar, ADR (Agricultural Engineering); Dr Khushdeep Dharni, Associate Director, Technology Marketing and IPR Cell; and Dr VS Sohu, Head, Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, were present during the signing ceremony.

Dr Surinder Sandhu, Principal Breeder and Incharge (Maize Section), said the PAU-developed PMH 17 is a high-yielding single-cross hybrid suitable for dual-purpose use—both grain and silage. “The PMH 17 recorded a grain yield of 62.7 quintals per hectare, showing a yield advantage of 8.5 per cent over PMH 14. This hybrid exhibited green fodder yield superiority of 3.3 per cent compared to PMH 14. The PMH 17 has been found suitable for silage production, meeting the quality parameters for desirable silage traits and demonstrating superior nutritional quality compared to the standard checks,” she explained.

Additionally, she noted, “Its starch-rich profile makes it a promising candidate for ethanol production,” adding that the hybrid exhibits moderate resistance to fall armyworm and maydis leaf blight.

Dr Dharni stated that PAU maize hybrids are highly popular among stakeholders.