The Rajasthan government has begun taking concrete steps to promote ethanol production, with a focus on increasing maize cultivation in tribal-dominated Banswara district. As part of this effort, a one-day training programme for farmers was organised at the Agriculture Research Centre in Banswara, which operates under the Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhaskar reported.
The programme was held under an ethanol industry project aimed at preparing farmers to meet the growing demand for maize as a feedstock for ethanol production. Officials said boosting maize output in the region would not only support the state’s ethanol targets but also create new income opportunities for local farmers.
During the training session, agricultural scientists and experts associated with the ethanol project interacted with farmers and explained how improved cultivation practices can raise productivity. They encouraged farmers to adopt modern methods, better crop planning and scientific management techniques to achieve higher yields.
Experts also explained how maize is used in ethanol production and highlighted the expanding role of ethanol in the energy sector. Farmers were informed that increased demand from ethanol-based industries could provide a stable market for their produce.
In addition to technical guidance, farmers were given urea fertiliser to support the upcoming crop cycle. Officials said such training initiatives are part of a broader strategy to link agriculture with emerging industries, ensuring that farmers benefit directly from new economic opportunities.
The state government is expected to organise similar programmes in other districts to strengthen raw material supply for ethanol production while improving farm incomes.
