Land & Environment 03 November 2026
1st International Maize Conference 2026 Calls for Higher Productivity and Farmer-Centric Research

Why in the News?
The **1st International Maize Conference 2026** commenced at the JD Convention Centre in Hyderabad. The three-day global summit brings together scientists, policymakers, and agricultural stakeholders to shape a roadmap for sustainable maize productivity and value-chain development.
Key Features / Major Points:
- Conference Theme:
- The conference was themed **“Maize Revolution for Food, Feed, Fodder, Fuel and Sustainability in the Changing World” (M4FS)**.
- India's Production Target:
- DARE Secretary and ICAR Director General **Dr. M. L. Jat** announced that India's maize production has reached approximately **55 million tonnes**, with a target to scale it up to **75 million tonnes** over the next decade.
- Evolution to the 5F Vision:
- The traditional 4F framework (Food, Feed, Fodder, Fuel) was expanded to **5F by placing Farmers at the center**, ensuring enhanced farm profitability and rural livelihoods.
- Research & Hybrid Development:
- Highlighting the development of **329 maize hybrids** over the past five years by ICAR, experts emphasized advanced breeding techniques, robust public-sector seed systems, and aflatoxin management.
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Static GK Facts:
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR):
- Established: **July 16, 1929** | Headquarters: **New Delhi**.
- Director General: **Dr. M. L. Jat**.
- CIMMYT (International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center):
- Headquarters: **El Batán, Mexico** (Global leader in maize and wheat research).
One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):
Q: In which city was the 1st International Maize Conference 2026 hosted?
A: Hyderabad, Telangana
Q: What is India's targeted maize production milestone for the coming decade?
A: 75 million tonnes
Q: What was the primary theme of the 1st International Maize Conference 2026?
A: Maize Revolution for Food, Feed, Fodder, Fuel and Sustainability (M4FS)
#InternationalMaizeConference #Hyderabad #ICAR #MaizeProduction #AgricultureIndia #CurrentAffairs #StaticGK
