Vice President Radhakrishnan Launches India's First Non-GMO Popcorn Seed

Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan launched India's first non-genetically modified (non-GMO), high-expansion popcorn maize hybrid seed on August 24, 2026. The launch took place at the Gourmet Popcornica Factory in Musunuru, Eluru district, Andhra Pradesh, where Radhakrishnan reviewed maize processing and quality control at the factory and cold storage facility.

Developed by Gourmet Popcornica through the crossing of selected parent plants rather than genetic engineering, the indigenous seed is designed to expand significantly when heated. Radhakrishnan characterized the launch as a significant step toward agricultural self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, noting that the technology reduces India's long-term dependence on imported hybrid seeds and helps conserve foreign exchange.

The Gourmet Popcornica initiative currently involves more than 17,500 farmers across eight states cultivating approximately 40,000 acres. This partnership between entrepreneurs and farmers aims to improve market access and income for farming families while creating a globally competitive agricultural sector. During the event, Radhakrishnan also praised Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu for his initiatives in rural development and agriculture.