Silage maize can boost farmers’ income: Experts

Silage maize has emerged as a transformative solution for improving farm profitability and livestock productivity, according to experts at a workshop organised by the ICAR–Indian Institute of Maize Research (IIMR) in Ludhiana.

The workshop, held under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare’s flagship programme, focused on strengthening the maize-based silage value chain across Punjab and Haryana.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr H.S Jat, Director, ICAR–IIMR, said, “Silage maize ensures better land-use efficiency, maintains soil health and significantly improves livestock performance.” He added that it bridges India’s widening green fodder gap while offering higher returns in shorter periods.

The workshop brought together experts from NDDB, Milkfed, Punjab Agro Industries Corporation, PDFA, Verka, dairy cooperatives, silage farmers and agri-start-ups. Key discussions covered maize hybrids, quality control, harvesting and storage techniques, microbial inoculants and entrepreneurship opportunities.

Experts underscored silage maize as a climate-resilient alternative to traditional fodder crops, ensuring consistent feed quality and enhanced milk yield. With proper training and market linkages, silage-making could become a lucrative rural enterprise, especially through Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and cooperatives.

Participants called for stronger policy support, capacity building and large-scale demonstrations to accelerate adoption. The workshop concluded with a joint appeal to integrate silage maize into mainstream farming for better fodder security and rural prosperity.