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ICAR-Indian Institute of Maize Research, Gourmet Popcornica drive Aatmanirbhar push in popcorn maize
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Monday, 16 February, 2026, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Our Bureau, Mumbai
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In a significant boost to India’s agri-value chain, the ICAR–Indian Institute of Maize Research (IIMR) and Gourmet Popcornica Private Limited are scripting a success story in building a self-reliant popcorn maize ecosystem. The strategic collaboration has strengthened domestic production, enhanced farmer incomes, and sharply reduced India’s dependence on popcorn imports.
Over the past decade, India’s popcorn maize market has grown from 50,000 tonnes to over 1,30,000 tonnes. While the country once relied almost entirely on imports, domestic production now meets nearly 65 per cent of demand—saving valuable foreign exchange and creating a sustainable income stream for farmers.
The partnership, formalised in February 2021 through agreements for IIMR-bred popcorn hybrids, combines scientific expertise with large-scale field execution. With guidance from ICAR-IIMR scientists and its in-house breeding team, Gourmet Popcornica has developed high-yielding, high-expansion hybrids resistant to major pests and diseases. Scientific cultivation practices, mechanisation and structured farmer engagement have improved productivity, kernel quality and popping ratios.
On its Founder’s Day on February 9, 2026, ICAR-IIMR recognised Gourmet Popcornica for its contribution to strengthening India’s popcorn maize ecosystem. The award was presented by Dr. Hanuman Sahay Jat, Director of Maize, ICAR-IIMR, to the company’s leadership team.
Currently, Gourmet Popcornica works with over 17,500 farmers across more than 36,000 acres in nine states under structured contract farming models. Capacity-building initiatives, responsible sourcing and sustainable practices further reinforce supply chain integrity.
Aligned with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, the collaboration is positioning India not only to meet domestic demand but also to emerge as a trusted exporter of premium popcorn maize to Asian markets—transforming what began as a niche crop into a national growth opportunity.
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