SHILLONG: Meghalaya’s succulent pineapples, currently captivating visitors at an Abu Dhabi mall, are set to dazzle fruit lovers in New Delhi as a part of the upcoming “Pineapple Fest 2023” at Dilli Haat from August 18.
The vibrant three-day affair will exhibit pineapples from the state that boast of minimal pesticide usage and exhibit significantly lower heavy metal residue compared to their mainland Indian counterparts.
Reports highlight that these succulent gems, aside from their unique taste profile, offer a remarkable sweetness, accentuated by a Brix value of 16-18—an indicator of their unparalleled sweetness.
On August 9, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, through a post on a popular micro-blogging website, shared an image of delectable Meghalaya pineapples gracing the Al-Wahda Mall in Abu Dhabi.
“From Songsak to Abu Dhabi, Meghalaya #Pineapples in grand display at Al Wadha Mall, Abu Dhabi. Congratulations to our farmers! (sic),” he wrote. This delectable produce is being meticulously showcased to Gulf markets through the prestigious Lulu Group.
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. Within the past three years, more than 350 such cooperatives have been successfully established. Collaboratively, the state’s Agriculture Department and Meghalaya Basin Management Agency (MBMA) have been providing guidance and support to these collectives, aiding them in breaking away from intermediary channels and transitioning toward enhanced production and marketing strategies.
The state boasts a rich tapestry of agro-climatic conditions, yielding a diverse spectrum of agricultural and horticultural treasures. These crops are lovingly cultivated by local communities, embracing traditional techniques that predominantly emphasise organic cultivation. Among these treasures, products such as the renowned Lakadong turmeric, the Geographical Indication-tagged Khasi mandarin, and the celebrated Kew pineapples are progressively garnering greater acclaim and attention.
