NEW DELHI: The first day of the Meghalaya Pineapple Fest 2023, a celebration of the state’s famed Kew pineapples, in Dilli Haat, New Delhi, resonated with the insightful words of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj minister, Giriraj Singh, who graced the inaugural function of the three-day event on August 18.
“In the context of our nation’s agricultural landscape, diversity is not just a word; it’s a treasure trove of opportunities. Events like these encourage us to explore the possibilities that lie within our own states, learn about their unique agricultural practices, and adapt them for the benefit of all,” Singh said, capturing the festival’s essence and highlighting the state’s invaluable influence on the country’s rich agricultural tapestry.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, who attended the do with a few cabinet ministers and administrative officers, said that the festival serves as a platform to share not only the sweetness of pineapples but also the richness of Meghalaya’s heritage and the commitment of its agricultural community.
“The Meghalaya Pineapple Fest is more than just a celebration of our state’s succulent produce; it’s a platform to share the diversity of our culture, the innovation in our agriculture, and the unity that binds our people,” he added, informing about the expansion of Meghalaya’s pineapple market presence in Dubai, Kuwait, and Sharjah.
The Meghalayan pineapples stand out for their exceptional quality and low pesticide and heavy metal residue. Their high sweetness level, with a Brix value of 16-18, has earned them a place even in the European market’s stringent standards.
The Meghalaya government, under its “One District- One Product” initiative, has been promoting these succulent gems with particular emphasis on their cultivation in Ri Bhoi and East Garo Hills districts.
Furthermore, the government has been actively engaged in facilitating the mobilisation of farmers to establish farmers’ cooperatives and farmer producer organisations (FPOs) throughout the state.
Meghalaya boasts a rich tapestry of agro-climatic conditions, yielding a diverse spectrum of agricultural and horticultural treasures. Among them are the renowned Lakadong turmeric, the Geographical Indication-tagged Khasi mandarin, and the celebrated, succulent Kew pineapples.
