Monsanto's Dekalb high yielding maize hybrid seeds offer superior yields and better grain quality as they are suited for varied agro climatic conditions. The current average yield of existing hybrid maize seeds available in Andhra Pradesh (AP) is 16.5 quintals/acre. In comparison, Dekalb hybrids offer yields of 24-36 quintals/acre, depending on the growing conditions. Dekalb hybrids are offered with high quality standards. Some of the hybrids also have excellent grain colour and grain weight. Dekalb hybrids are responsive to good management and thus yields can be enhanced by adopting good agronomic practices.

Maize is one of AP's key crops with acreage currently more than 13 lakh acres under commercial hybrid seeds. Andhra Pradesh is currently the largest producer of India's maize contributing 21% of annual maize production

Maize is a very important cereal crop in India. India ranks fifth in maize acreage after US, China, Brazil and Mexico. In per acre productivity, India is low with 8 lakh quintals/acre, where as world average is about 20 quintals/acre. India needs to double its maize production in next ten years to meet the growing domestic demand from the feed and starch sectors. With Dekalb high yielding maize hybrids, even the small farmer can pave a way for self-reliance and better earnings.

Monsanto's Dekalb high yielding maize hybrid seeds are popular in the farming communities in all corn growing districts in AP. Across India, Dekalb high yielding maize hybrids are grown on four of every ten maize acres.

Monsanto's Technical Team conducts ongoing Dekalb Farmer Training Programs at every stage of the crop cycle to educate farmers on agronomic management to achieve the best yields. Monsanto is also promoting zero tillage maize in two of the coastal districts in AP, to optimize field productivity between two paddy harvests. This is gaining popularity among farmers as there is a time constraint between rice and maize.

Dekalb is a 100+ year-old brand that is today one of the biggest producers of hybrid maize seeds. The focus is strongly on science and technology to produce only high yielding hybrids based on extensive research to suit Indian conditions. Dekalb hybrids are known for their highest yields/consistent performance and best quality. Dekalb portfolio consists of a range of high quality of seeds to suit various growing conditions of Indian farmer ranging from irrigated to rain-fed conditions, short duration to medium duration and adaptable for different types of soil.

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