Better prices for spring maize this year have brought some relief to farmers in Ambala district, despite a drop in yield. Around 4,000 hectares were planted with spring maize in Ambala this year. Last year, the dried produce sold for Rs 1,600-1,700 per quintal, while this year, it is fetching Rs 2,000-2,100 per quintal in various grain markets. Farmers reported that pest attacks and high temperatures affected the yield, but the higher market prices helped prevent losses.