In a significant shift from traditional farming practices, a group of women farmers in Upper Kuttanad, Kerala, has successfully adopted maize cultivation in place of conventional paddy farming. The initiative was introduced as an alternative to rice cultivation, which has become increasingly challenging due to unpredictable weather conditions, rising cultivation costs, labour shortages, and recurring floods. By experimenting with maize, the farmers have demonstrated a sustainable and profitable approach to agriculture while making better use of available farmland.
The women farmers, working through self-help groups and agricultural cooperatives, received technical guidance and support from the Department of Agriculture and local agricultural experts. Maize was selected because of its shorter cultivation period, lower water requirements, and comparatively lower production costs. The crop has shown promising yields, providing farmers with improved income opportunities while also contributing to food security and agricultural diversification in the region.