Maize or corn is one of the vital cereal crops that are grown in India. Rice and wheat are the staple crops of India, maize stands next to them. Maize is a versatile crop that is widely used in various industries including food, fodder and biofuel. The driving factors for an increase in the production of maize in India are demand for the product and supportive climate conditions. Maize is also called of queen of cereals as it scores highest in genetic yield and can be grown in diverse seasons and ecologies.
Here’s a look at the top five maize-producing states in India in 2025, which contribute the largest share to the country’s maize output.
1. Karnataka
Karnataka is often referred to as the powerhouse of maize production in India. The state continues to lead the country in maize production, owing to its well-organized farming practices and cultivation area. In Karnataka, the production of maize is concentrated primarily in the regions of Haveri, Davangere and Chitradurga. Maize production in the state includes both Kharif and rabi crops. Further, the availability of improved hybrid seeds and better irrigation facilities has improved the production of maize in the state.
2. Madhya Pradesh
The next state on our list of producing maize is Madhya Pradesh. Madhya Pradesh tops the list in the production of maize for its favorable climate conditions. The state produces Kharif and Rabi Maize in over 1 million hectares and contributes to 13.59 % of maize production in India. The support of the state government has also improved maize production in the state. The agricultural institute of the state has conducted immense research and has developed unique and advanced techniques for the production of maize in the state.
3. Maharashtra
Maharashtra has made significant strides in maize production, especially in regions like Nashik, Kolhapur and Aurangabad. The state contributes to 10.51% of maize production in India. The land of Maharashtra is fertile and it stretches over 75 lakh hectares. Production of maize is further increased with the use of hybrid –seeds, incorporation of drip-irrigation and organic techniques. The demand for the crop is further increased with market linkages that boost the income of the farmers producing the crop. Maize-producing farmers are supported by the government by providing developed infrastructure for agricultural marketing and processing. The above-listed factors have contributed to the high production of maize in the state.
4. Rajasthan
Rajasthan is also the highest producer of maize in India. The versatile nature of the crop that is adaptable to various climate conditions has helped the state grow the crop. The arid climate of the state has helped in the cultivation of the crop as the crop easily adapts to dry conditions. The production of maize in the state is concentrated in districts like Udaipur, Bhilwara and Chittorgarh. Further, the state has successfully produced maize by utilizing modern irrigation techniques, such as drip irrigation that boost maize yield.
5. Bihar
The last state on our list that is the major contributor of maize in India is Bihar. Gangetic plains of Bihar with its rich fertile land and vast land aid the immense production of maize in the state. Bihar contributes to 7% of national maize production in India. Further, farmers of Bihar use hybrid variety seeds that enhance maize production in the state. Bihar’s favorable alluvial soil, combined with ample water resources, provides excellent conditions for maize farming. The state farmers typically grow maize during Rabi season, and the production of maize plays a crucial role in the state’s agricultural economy of the state.
Conclusion
India is a land of agricultural and it is involved in the production of various crops. Maize cultivation in India is spread across various states in India, each contributing to the nation’s overall output. The growing demand for the poultry sector, growing urbanization and increasing demand for processed food such as bakery products have increased maize production in India. The scope of production in India for cultivating maize crops is limited, but the projected demand by 2050 is expected to increase the current production. The maize production of India contributes to nearly 2.71 % of global production.