• Develop superior hybrids and varieties combining high yield and acceptable quality of grain and fodder, wider adaptability and resistance to major pests, diseases and abiotic stress factors for each zone
• Evolve appropriate crop management practices and formulate efficient maize-based cropping systems for sustainable maize production in each zone
• Conduct investigations on key or potential pests and diseases of maize and identify and evolve elite sources of resistance to develop suitable integrated plant protection strategies for increasing the stability of production
• Promote research and extension to meet local needs within each state through SAUs and other partners