New hybrid maize variety ‘Saugat’ promises relief for farmers facing extreme weather
Summary
Nepal’s National Maize Research Programme has developed a new hybrid maize variety, Saugat, that can withstand drought, erratic rainfall and waterlogging. The variety is expected to boost domestic seed production and reduce reliance on imported hybrids once it receives final certification.
Key Points
- The National Maize Research Programme in Rampur, Chitwan has developed a new hybrid maize variety called Saugat, coded CAH-1511.
- Researchers say Saugat can tolerate drought, heavy rainfall and waterlogging, and can survive submerged fields for up to 48 hours without losing productivity.
- The variety has completed multi-stage field trials and is awaiting final approval from the National Seed Board for registration and release.
- Officials say Saugat could help cut Nepal’s dependence on imported hybrid maize seeds and provide farmers with a climate-resilient option.
