Performance of location specific composite maize (zea Mays L.) variety in north eastern hilly region of Mizoram

Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Lunglei conducted twenty five demonstrations across five selected villages to disseminate the production technology of high yielding maize composite RCM 75. The improved technologies consisted of location specific improved high yielding composite variety, use of pre-emergence weedicides, use of fungicide as seed treatment, fertilizers, insect-pest management etc. The results indicate that with the transfer of improved technology, the grain yield of demonstration plots was considerably higher over farmers’ plot yield. The highest grain yield was obtained in demonstrated plot (50.73 q/ha) compared to 35.82 q/ha under farmers’ practice. The average increase in yield over farmers’ practice was 41.60 per cent. There was an average technology gap of14.28 q/ha, average extension gap (14.91 q/ha) and average technology index (21.96%). The decreased value of technology index reflected the feasibility of the variety in farmers’ field. By conducting front line demonstration of proven technologies, yield potential of maize cultivation can be enhanced to a great extent with increased income of the rural farming community.