CM Chandrababu Naidu hails launch of India's first non-GMO popcorn maize hybrid seed in Andhra Pradesh

Amaravati (Andhra Pradesh) [India], August 24 (ANI): Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Monday hailed the unveiling of India's first non-GMO high-expansion popcorn maize hybrid seed in Eluru district, describing the development as a matter of pride and a significant step towards achieving self-sufficiency in domestic popcorn production.
Naidu said he was delighted to witness the launch of the indigenous hybrid seed and the felicitation of farmers at Musunuru in Eluru district. He highlighted that the seed was developed locally in the Nuzvid region to suit Indian soil and climatic conditions.

Accoridng to the Chief Minister's Office, the CM congratulated Gourmet Popcornica for developing and unveiling the indigenous seed, saying that the initiative could strengthen domestic popcorn production and reduce dependence on imported varieties.
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The development comes as Vice President CP Radhakrishnan visited Musunuru on Monday to launch the non-GMO popcorn maize hybrid seed and interact with farmers and agricultural stakeholders.
During his visit, Radhakrishnan attended a programme at the Gourmet Popcornica Factory in Musunuru, where he felicitated farmers and addressed agricultural stakeholders and other participants.
The Vice President's visit comes days after he inaugurated 'MALHAR 2026', a youth-centric, monsoon-themed celebration of Indian classical music organised by Antar Hriday Connect in New Delhi on August 21.
Addressing the gathering at the musical event, Radhakrishnan appreciated efforts to create opportunities for young people to experience India's classical music heritage. He described music as one of India's strongest cultural links and highlighted its potential as a form of India's soft power.
He urged the youth to become custodians and ambassadors of India's civilisational heritage and take the country's classical music and cultural traditions to communities across the world.
He also highlighted music as one of India's greatest forms of soft power, capable of transcending language and borders and fostering friendship, understanding and goodwill. (ANI)