Maize production needs to rise 33% for enthanol push

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The government has emphasised on higher maize production to increase ethanol production. Currently, the country produces about 33 million tonnes which needs to be raised to 44-45 million tonnes in the next five years. Agriculture secretary Manoj Ahuja, while speaking at the India Maize Summit also stressed on the need to systematic reduction in losses in the value chain of maize. Higher maize production can lead to more income for the farmers and also higher ethanol production for blending in fuels. Developing the maize ecosystem will also involve bigger warehouses that can hold stocks for a longer period.