A Sweet Success: Tripura Hosts Global Pineapple Festival in Delhi

NEW DELHI — The Tripura government inaugurated the three-day Tripura Global Pineapple Festival 2026 on Saturday, June 27, at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium. The event, which coincides with International Pineapple Day, brings together farmers, trade delegates, policymakers, and international buyers to showcase the state’s GI-tagged "Queen" pineapple and its broader potential in agriculture, tourism, and bamboo production.

The festival serves as a high-profile platform for the Northeast state to project its agricultural prowess on a global stage. Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, alongside Union Minister of State for DoNER Dr. Sukanta Majumdar and state Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath, presided over the opening ceremony, emphasizing the state's vision to integrate its rural economy with international supply chains.

Expanding the Reach of Queen Pineapple

With over 12,000 hectares currently dedicated to pineapple cultivation, Tripura produces approximately 1.78 lakh metric tonnes of the fruit annually. Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath highlighted that the event aligns with the "Vocal for Local" and "Atmanirbhar Bharat" initiatives, aiming to formalize the farm-to-market value chain.

The government has launched "Mission Queen Pineapple," a ₹236 crore project spanning three years, which aims to increase cultivation by 3,000 hectares. This initiative focuses on strengthening post-harvest infrastructure, including:

• Establishing 10 pack houses and ripening chambers.

• Deploying 20 refrigerated transport vehicles.

• Setting up two bromelain extraction centers in Agartala and the Gomati district.

Integrating Tourism and Sustainable Industry

The festival is not limited to fresh produce; it features 25 exhibition stalls showcasing Tripura’s indigenous handicrafts, bamboo products, and cultural heritage. Officials indicated that the event is part of a larger strategy to promote "agri-tourism," encouraging visitors to engage with the state's traditional farming practices and tribal culture.

According to state officials, the festival provides a crucial space for B2B networking. By facilitating connections between local farmers and international trade delegations from over 15 nations, the Tripura government expects to bolster the export of pineapple-based value-added products, such as juices, jams, and fiber for sustainable fashion.

"Organizers stated that the festival is designed to build real, lasting connections between our farmers and the global market, ensuring that Tripura’s agricultural excellence—specifically our Queen pineapple—receives the international recognition it deserves," according to officials from the Directorate of Horticulture.

Why It Matters

The event marks a significant step in shifting Tripura's agricultural sector from local distribution to an export-oriented model. By improving infrastructure and value addition, the state aims to increase farmer incomes significantly. For the consumer, the festival offers an opportunity to discover high-quality, GI-tagged produce and gain insight into the socio-economic development of Northeast India.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Event Dates: June 27–29, 2026, at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi.

• State Fruit: The Queen pineapple was declared the official state fruit of Tripura in 2018 and received a GI tag in 2014.

• Production Targets: The government plans to expand cultivation from 12,000 to 15,000 hectares by 2029.

• Diverse Revenue Streams: Beyond fruit, the state is focusing on bromelain extraction and pineapple fiber for luxury and sustainable industries.

FAQ

What is the significance of the Queen pineapple? The Queen pineapple is a GI-tagged variety known for its unique sweetness, aroma, and long shelf life, making it a premium export commodity for Tripura.

How does this festival help local farmers? It provides a platform for direct engagement with national and international buyers, helping farmers secure better prices and understand export-grade standards.

Is the festival open to the public? Yes, the festival at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium is free to enter and open to trade buyers, students, and the general public.

Source: Government of Tripura, Times of India, ANI News