Maize (makka) was introduced into India via

The correct answer is Portugal and Italy.

Key Points

• Maize, also known as corn, is a cereal grain first domesticated by indigenous peoples in southern Mexico about 10,000 years ago.
• It was introduced to India by Portuguese and Italian traders during the 16th century.
• Maize is a staple food in many parts of the world, and its introduction to India significantly impacted agricultural practices and food consumption.
• The crop is versatile and can be grown in diverse climates, making it an essential part of the Indian agricultural economy.

Additional Information

• Origin of Maize: Maize originally comes from the Americas, where it was cultivated by native civilizations such as the Aztecs and Mayans.
• Spread to Europe: After the discovery of the New World, maize was brought to Europe by explorers and traders in the late 15th and early 16th centuries.
• Agricultural Impact: The introduction of maize to India diversified the crop base and helped in food security by providing an additional source of nutrition.
• Uses of Maize: Maize is used for various purposes, including human consumption, animal feed, and as a raw material in industries producing starch, oil, and biofuel.
• Varieties: There are several varieties of maize, including sweet corn, popcorn, and field corn, each serving different purposes and having distinct growing requirements.