Tripura, a lush green state tucked away in the northeastern corner of India, has quietly earned a name for itself on the global map — thanks to its juicy, golden pineapples. Known for their exceptional sweetness and aroma, Tripura’s pineapples, especially the queen variety, have become a symbol of the state’s agricultural potential and a major contributor to its economy.
The Legacy of Pineapple Farming in Tripura
Pineapple cultivation in Tripura dates back several decades, with farmers traditionally growing the fruit for local consumption and neighboring markets. The state’s warm, humid climate and rich, loamy soil provide ideal conditions for pineapple farming. Among the varieties grown, Queen Pineapple stands out for its unique taste, smaller size, and distinct golden-yellow color. Recognizing its superior quality, the Queen Pineapple was awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2015, giving it a mark of authenticity and boosting its market value.
Today, over 8,800 hectares of land in Tripura are dedicated to pineapple cultivation, primarily in districts like Sepahijala, West Tripura, Gomati, and Dhalai. The state produces approximately 1.3 lakh metric tonnes of pineapples annually, making it one of India’s leading pineapple producers.
From Local Fields to Global Markets
Tripura’s pineapples were once mostly sold in domestic markets across India, but in recent years, the state has successfully tapped into the international arena. With the support of the Tripura Horticulture Department, Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), and various farmer-producer organizations (FPOs), pineapples from Tripura have made their way to markets in the Middle East, Bangladesh, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
In 2018, a major milestone was achieved when Tripura exported its first consignment of pineapples to Dubai. Since then, the demand has steadily grown, thanks to the fruit’s naturally organic cultivation methods — most farmers in Tripura grow pineapples without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides.
Government Support and Farmer Initiatives
To promote pineapple cultivation and exports, the Tripura government has launched several initiatives, including:
- Providing high-quality planting materials and technical guidance
- Developing cold storage and packaging facilities
- Facilitating direct links between farmers and exporters
- Offering financial incentives for organic farming practices
These steps have empowered thousands of farmers, especially tribal communities, to increase their income and adopt sustainable farming methods.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While Tripura’s pineapple story is inspiring, challenges remain. Limited cold storage infrastructure, high transportation costs due to the state’s geographical isolation, and fluctuating global demand sometimes affect profitability. However, with increasing focus on value addition (such as pineapple juice, jam, and canned products) and better logistics through the India-Bangladesh connectivity routes, the future looks promising.
Conclusion
Tripura’s pineapple cultivation is more than just agriculture — it’s a story of tradition, resilience, and economic transformation. As the world increasingly seeks fresh, organic, and exotic fruits, the golden pineapples of Tripura are poised to shine brighter on the global stage. With continued support and innovation, this small northeastern state can truly become India’s pineapple capital.
Leave a Reply