As the third Meghalaya Pineapple Festival, which will take place from August 1–3 at Dilli Haat in New Delhi, approaches, Meghalaya’s pineapple industry has reached a major milestone: over 757 metric tons of processed fruit have reached European Union baby food makers. Over 30,000 farmers from the districts of Ri-Bhoi and Garo Hills participated in the extensive agricultural reform that resulted in the export success.
Through self-help group activities that guarantee quality control and full traceability from farm to market, these farmers grow naturally organic Kew pineapples with a high Brix value. During her visit to Meghalaya, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently announced the supply of quality pineapples to Dubai; the fruit is currently sold at Lulu Hypermarkets. This comes after Meghalaya’s agricultural produce was introduced to foreign markets through agreements with prominent retailers such as Mother India and Lulu Group.
Meghalaya has developed a robust support infrastructure for farmers, including over 500 collectives and FOCUS initiatives. The state’s festival, organized by the Chief Minister’s Grassroots Music Program, will showcase traditional crafts, indigenous cuisine, and musical performances. The event aims to highlight the economic transformation in the agricultural sector and showcase successful rural development initiatives. Attendees can sample pineapple-based products and learn about sustainable farming practices.