Red maize cultivation in Sirajganj has passed the expected yield. There is interest among the farmers in cultivating this nutritious red maize. For the first time, farmers in Sirajganj Sadar and Kazipur upazilas have planted a whole new variety of high protein rich red maize on the banks of river Jamuna.
According to the farmers, this Strawberry Red Maize tree grows up to 6-7 inch more than the regular variant of maize in size. This crop can be collected 30 days earlier than other varieties prevalent in the country. The yield per bigha has been 20 maunds. The cost per bigha for cultivating red maize is about 16 thousand Tk. Its price is higher than that of other common maize and local farmers have become interested in it. Farmers also said that the harvest of red maize is not over yet. However, they expect to be able to sell 35/40 thousand Tk worth maize in the amount that has been produced. They also said that the farmers of the area are interested in cultivating this maize as it has high yield and disease resistance.
Every day, many people from the city come to see this new variety of bright red maize. Abdul Motaleb, a farmer in the area, said, "We have never seen such a beautiful color of maize that is easily liked. Next year I will cultivate this maize.”
Farmer Abdur Rashid said, "We assumed at first that it would not yield much. I was confused but now seeing the yield we are also optimistic. Next year I decided to cultivate this variant of maize myself. I like maize a lot because of its advance and good yield.” Kazi Sohail Rana, managing director of Kazi Seeds, said the seeds were imported from China. It has been linked to repair damages to the nervous system and can also counteract the effects of diabetes. Red maize contains 350% more antioxidants than ordinary white or yellow maize. Red maize fights cancer. Kazi Seeds, the first importer in Bangladesh, has started experimental cultivation of the seed.
"Since this crop has many health benefits, we are hopeful that the government will take steps to expand its cultivation," he said.
In this regard, Sirajganj Kazipur Upazila Agriculture Officer Md Rezaul Karim said, this variety of maize is completely new. It was brought from China. This variety of maize has not been cultivated here before. Farmers have been advised by the local agriculture department. The yield of this new maize has also been good.
