The Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, launched India's first non-GMO high-expansion popcorn maize hybrid seed developed by Gourmet Popcornica in Musunuru, Andhra Pradesh. This event marks a significant step towards self-reliance in agriculture as per the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
On August 24, 2026, Vice-President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan launched India's first non-GMO, high-expansion popcorn maize hybrid seed at Musunuru in Eluru district of Andhra Pradesh. Developed by Gourmet Popcornica, this indigenous seed is considered a significant step towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat in agriculture. The Vice-President commended the effort for reducing dependence on imported hybrid technology and conserving foreign exchange.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Radhakrishnan emphasized the importance of technology, innovation, and indigenous seed development in strengthening Indian agriculture. He appreciated Union Government's farmer-centric initiatives, including PM-KISAN, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, National Food Security and Nutrition Mission, and Namo Drone Didi.
Referring to the launch, Shri Radhakrishnan pointed out that for years India had depended on imported hybrid technology for high-quality popcorn maize. He commended Gourmet Popcornica and farmers for developing an Indian solution, grown on Indian soil, with the potential to compete in global markets.
Highlighting the scale of the farmer-enterprise partnership, Shri Radhakrishnan mentioned that more than 17,500 farmers across eight States, cultivating nearly 40,000 acres, are part of the Gourmet Popcornica journey. He lauded the journey of Shri S.B.P. Pattabhi Rama Rao and Gourmet Popcornica from a homegrown enterprise in Andhra Pradesh to a major popcorn maize processing enterprise, strengthening market access and income opportunities for thousands of farming families.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
