The maize will become the top-cultivated crop in the world by 2020 because of its nutrient values and China will also import it to feed the pollution.

The maize will become the top-cultivated crop in the world by 2020 because of its nutrient values and China will also import it to feed the pollution. It was echoed at the international colloquium titled opportunities and challenges of maize production arranged by Plant Breeding and Genetics Department, University of Agriculture Faisalabad. Chairing the session, UAF Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan said that maize is the most versatile crop that can is being grown in more than 166 countries. He told the audience that that its global production has increased more than 12 times in the last five decades. He said before the green revolution, maize flour was used by people as it was economical as compared to wheat. In the modern era, technology is needed to make roti from maize to market it to address the issue of hunger. Punjab DG Research Dr Abid Mahmood said that maize is the crop of future keeping in view the food security. He said that all step are being taken to enhance its productivity through research. He said demand of cereal was increasing and maize would become most important cereal especially in developing countries. Faculty of Agriculture Dean Prof Dr Muhammad Arshad stressed the need to put the research focus on tangible researches to ensure the food security in the county. He said maize was the third biggest food crop and it was also a major crop in many countries because of its multiple uses and high yield. PARB Chairman Dr Noorul Islam said that maize crop is utilized in many ways including excellent human food, cattle feed and raw material for many industries. PBG Chairman Abdus Salam said insect-resilient maize can alleviate hunger and help achieve food security in third world countries. Rafhan Manager Dr Khalid Aziz said that they are working to get the three cultivation of maize in a year that will increase productivity manifold. Director External Linkages Dr Ashfaq Chattha, Dr Muhamamad Aslam and other notables also spoke.