Godrej Agrovet Limited (Godrej Agrovet), one of India's leading farm-to-protein companies, is strengthening its support for maize farmers in Tamil Nadu through its crop care solutions, Ashitaka and TAKAI. Building on the successful launch of Ashitaka and TAKAI in Tamil Nadu last year, the company continues to partner with farmers to address critical weed and pest challenges that impact maize productivity. As maize cultivation expands across the state, early-stage weed competition and pest attacks such as Fall Armyworm remain significant concerns, with the potential to cause substantial yield losses if not managed effectively.
While India ranks fourth globally in maize acreage and fifth in production, Tamil Nadu has distinguished itself through productivity-led growth. The state produces around 33 lakh tonnes of maize from approximately 13.3 lakh acres, with the Madurai region accounting for over 4 lakh acres under cultivation. As demand from food, feed and industrial sectors continues to rise, protecting yield potential and improving on-farm productivity have become increasingly important.
Commenting on this, N.K. Rajavelu, CEO, Crop Care Business, Godrej Agrovet, said, "Maize has emerged as an important crop for farmers in Tamil Nadu, but realising its full potential requires scientific crop management and timely interventions throughout the crop cycle. Effective weed control during the early growth stages and timely management of pests such as Fall Armyworm are critical to protecting yield potential. Ashitaka and TAKAI support this approach by providing farmers with research-backed solutions that address these challenges effectively. At Godrej Agrovet, we remain committed to equipping farmers with advanced crop care technologies that enhance productivity, strengthen crop resilience and support better on-farm outcomes."
As maize cultivation shifts towards productivity-led growth, Godrej Agrovet continues to support farmers with innovative crop protection solutions backed by local agronomic expertise. Ashitaka, a selective herbicide for maize, provides effective control of grasses and broad-leaved weeds. Applied at the 2-4 weed leaf stage at a recommended dosage of 50 ml/acre with 400 ml/acre of surfactant, it helps reduce crop-weed competition and supports stronger crop establishment.
Complementing weed management, TAKAI is a multi-crop insecticide powered by Cyclapryn™ technology from ISK Japan. Recommended in two applications of 160 ml/acre each, at 10-15 days and 30-35 days after sowing, it provides effective control of Fall Armyworm through rapid feeding cessation and long-lasting protection, helping safeguard yield potential.
Together, Ashitaka and TAKAI address two of the most significant challenges in maize cultivation, helping farmers protect their crops and achieve more consistent productivity.