Science, Discovery, Tech and Environment · 25 August 2026

India Launches First Non-GMO High-Expansion Popcorn Maize Hybrid

Exam-focused facts from the 25 August 2026 current affairs briefing.

Key facts

  • The Vice-President of India launched the first non-GMO high-expansion popcorn maize hybrid seed at Musunuru in Andhra Pradesh.
  • The hybrid seed was developed by Gourmet Popcornica, an indigenous enterprise.
  • The launch aims to reduce India's dependence on imported hybrid technology for popcorn maize.
  • Over 17,500 farmers across eight states are cultivating nearly 40,000 acres under the Gourmet Popcornica initiative.