A field day showcasing the newly developed high beta-carotene maize hybrid CMBH 19-011 (Co 6 – Pro-Vit) was organized at Melnariappanur village, Chinnasalem.
The event was jointly organized by the Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology and the Department of Millets, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), in collaboration with the ICAR – Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kallakurichi and Tamil Nadu Agricultural Department, Kallakurichi. Dr. S. Sivakumar, Head of the Department of Millets, TNAU, presided over the event.
Dr. N. Senthil, Director, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, delivered the keynote address. He highlighted the salient features of the new maize hybrid — its high beta-carotene content, yield potential, and its potential contribution to combating vitamin A deficiency, particularly among children. He further emphasized that value-added food products developed from this biofortified maize are expected to gain significant consumer acceptance and market value. Kallakurichi District Assistant Director of Agriculture (In-charge) Mrs. Prabhavathi and Agricultural Officer (Marketing) Mr. M. Rajkumar participated in the event and interacted with farmers.
In her vote of thanks, Dr. Vimala Rani, Head, ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kallakurichi, appreciated the farmers for their active participation and encouraged them to adopt the newly released hybrid for improved income and nutritional security. A large number of farmers from Chinnasalem and neighboring villages attended the field day and observed the performance of the new maize hybrid CMBH 19-011 (Co 6 – Pro-Vit) in the demonstration fields.