PAU led Punjab Agri-Business Incubator (PABI), has achieved a proud milestone with its incubated startup, Corn Troopers, successfully exporting India’s first-ever consignment of coated popcorn to South Korea. Founded by Shivam Mittal, Corn Troopers marked this historic achievement by dispatching a 40-foot container carrying approximately 27,000 pouches (75 grams each) of flavoured coated popcorn. The shipment was flagged off from Dappar Inland Container Depot (ICD), Punjab and loaded onto a vessel from Mundra Port destined to arrive at the Port of Busan, South Korea, this month
This landmark export underscores PABI’s success in nurturing agri-entrepreneurs and enabling them to transform agricultural products into high-value exports. Expressing his gratitude, Shivam Mittal stated, “This achievement would not have been possible without the mentorship, training, and strategic guidance from PABI. The incubator provided me with critical insights on branding, market research, and export regulations, which helped me secure this international deal.”
Dr. M.S. Bhullar, Director of Extension Education, PAU, described the event as a proud moment for Punjab and PABI, stating that Corn Troopers’ success exemplifies how startups can lead India’s value-added agri-food exports, breaking barriers and establishing their brands internationally.
Dr. T.S. Riar, Principal Investigator, PABI, emphasized that the export milestone validates PABI’s incubation model, which offers technical expertise, business mentorship, and market exposure to convert innovative ideas into global success stories. He also praised Mittal’s determination and resilience.
Dr. Poonam Sachdev, Co-Principal Investigator, PABI, highlighted that Corn Troopers’ achievement reflects the importance of value addition, smart packaging, and persistence in global trade, adding that with stronger government support and improved export logistics, Punjab’s food processing industry can scale new heights.
