Corn Silk – Not Agricultural Waste, But a Source of IncomeCorn Silk Can Become a Major Support in Increasing Farmers’ Income,,

Correspondence,,,Aslam Kohra

Pantnagar Corn silk, previously considered agricultural waste, can now emerge as a powerful means to boost farmers’ income. These soft fibers that fall in fields after maize harvest are often discarded as useless, yet scientific research reveals that collecting and processing them can yield good profits at low cost.Research by Dr. Rita Singh Raghuvanshi from Pantnagar Agricultural University shows that systematic collection and scientific processing of corn silk can transform it into high-value food products, functional foods, health beverages, natural preservatives, cosmetic products, and industrial materials.Globally, around 3 to 15 million tons of corn silk are wasted annually without use, but these could serve as a major additional income source for farmers. The study indicates that corn silk is rich in fiber, minerals, flavonoids, phytosterols, tocopherols, phenolic compounds, chlorogenic acid, and caffeic acid. Flavonoids like myricetin, luteolin, and apigenin act as natural antioxidants, protecting body cells from damage. These compounds aid in blood sugar control, heart health, reducing inflammation, and maintaining metabolic balance.Corn silk contains about 15% protein, 50% carbohydrates including cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and pectin, along with minerals like calcium, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. It helps improve digestion, control obesity, address urinary issues, and combat infections. Extracts from corn silk also exhibit antibacterial and antifungal properties. Corn silk powder is being added to soups, porridge, broths, beverages, and bakery products to enhance nutrition. In cosmetics, absorbent materials derived from it promote healthy, glowing skin. Herbal tea made from corn silk supports digestion and maintains body fluid balance.Economically, corn silk is highly beneficial. Annual costs for collection, cleaning, drying, packing, labor, and transport total around 73,000 rupees. Dried corn silk powder sells for up to 2,500 rupees per kilogram in the herbal market. Selling 100 kilograms of powder can earn a farmer about 200,000 rupees in profit per year. Notably, no extra land or new crops are required.Demand for corn silk is rising internationally. Countries like China, the USA, Korea, Turkey, and India use it to treat heart disease, urinary disorders, liver issues, inflammation, and digestive imbalances. In Uttarakhand’s hilly and terai regions, maize is a major kharif crop. Adopting food, medicinal, and cosmetic enterprises based on corn silk can provide local employment for rural youth. Experts believe small-scale industries from corn silk could play a key role in curbing migration from Uttarakhand.