Corn is rapidly emerging as a high-value crop in India due to its versatility, demand in food processing, and growing market for health-oriented corn derivatives. Many smallholder farmers, however, lack access to updated production practices, scientific crop management, and knowledge about value addition—key drivers of sustainable livelihoods. For Fairtrade small-scale farmers’ organisations in Karnataka, who are already engaged in vegetable cultivation, corn diversification presented a promising opportunity.

To strengthen farmers’ resilience, diversify income streams, and equip them with skills that go beyond Fairtrade compliance, Fairtrade NAPP organized a focused exposure visit on Corn Production Technology and Value Addition at the Zonal Agricultural Research Station, V.C. Farm, Mandya, India. The one-day program brought together 17 farmer members from two vegetable farmers’ organisations, primarily baby corn and gherkin growers, to introduce them to modern corn technologies and the vast potential of value-added corn products.

The initiative aimed to introduce value-chain upgrading opportunities that reduce dependence on raw produce sales while providing practical insights into marketable corn-based products that can enhance income stability and support climate-resilient livelihoods.

A Day of Learning, Innovation & Inspiration

Through expert-led presentations, interactive demonstrations, and field exposure, farmers received a comprehensive orientation on the entire corn production cycle.

Key Technical Sessions Included:

• High-yielding & improved corn varieties
• Soil fertility and nutrient management tailored for maize
• Integrated pest and disease control strategies
• Post-harvest handling and storage
• Value addition pathways such as producing corn flour, corn starch, corn syrup, corn snacks, and other processed products

Participants also engaged in a field visit to demonstration plots, where they observed new hybrids and experimental varieties under trial—giving them first-hand exposure to scientific advancements.

Value Addition That Sparked Entrepreneurial Thinking

One of the most transformative moments for participants was the session on value-added corn products. The display of diverse processed products—from corn silk tea (a product with rising medicinal demand) to various forms of flour, starch, and snack items—opened their eyes to business opportunities far beyond farming.

Farmers expressed excitement about the potential of corn silk, learning about its therapeutic benefits and increasing market demand. Many recognised that such innovative products could become sustainable income alternatives for their organisations, reducing risks tied to seasonal crop fluctuations.

Improvements & Impact for Farmers

The exposure visit led to immediate learning outcomes, equipping farmers with stronger technical knowledge in corn cultivation and disease management, alongside improved post-harvest handling practices that can significantly reduce losses. Participants also recognized increased income prospects through value-added product development, which sparked renewed motivation for crop diversification—particularly among younger producers. Many farmers began envisioning the possibility of launching their own branded corn-based products, leaving inspired and eager to advance further, requesting a detailed, practical training session to master product preparation and commercialization.

“The training on corn varieties, production techniques, and especially value addition was extremely useful. We want to prepare our own value-added corn products in the future and market them.”
— Bhutesh K, Maradi Ranganatha Agro Producer Company Limited

“The value addition session was most beneficial. We want more practical training and plan to produce and market our own brand for sustainability. We thank Fairtrade NAPP for organizing such a program.”
— Manohar B, Hemavathi Agro Producer Company Limited

Looking Ahead

A follow-up practical value-addition training is planned for 2026, where farmers will learn hands-on processing techniques, packaging, and market linkage strategies. Corn, once just another crop, is now emerging as a promising business frontier for vegetable growers in Karnataka—and this exposure visit marks a significant step in that journey.