Vol. 12, Issue 1 (2023)

Author(s):
Veeresh Kumar, GS Giri, Ajay Kumar, Anil Kumar Sharma and Birendra Singh

Abstract:
A front line demonstration programme of quality protein maize was conducted in order to evaluate the scientific method of QPM cultivation and farmer practices in the important maize growing districts i.e Muzaffarpur and East Champaran of Bihar. The scientific method of QPM cultivation for QPM includes sowing of seeds at a distance of 60 X 25 cm, application of fertiliser at the rate of N: P₂O₅:K₂O:: 150:70:60 kg/ha, irrigation at knee height, pre-flowering and grain filling stages and application of Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 0.4 ml/L at fortnight interval during initial growth stages. The framer practices include broad casting method of sowing, application of higher doses of fertiliser particularly urea at the time of sowing and irrigation depending upon the soil moisture content irrespective of critical stages. In each districts, 10 progressive farmers were selected for recording the observation regarding grain yield. Based on the results, it was found that QPM variety with front line demonstration practices records higher yield in fields of all the farmers in both the districts. The FLD practices also showed lesser damage by the Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) and stem borer (Chilo partellus) as compared to farmer practices.