The fourth edition of the Meghalaya Pineapple Fest 2026 began at Dilli Haat in New Delhi on July 10, bringing together farmers, entrepreneurs, policymakers and visitors to celebrate one of Meghalaya's most celebrated agricultural products. The three-day festival, which continues until July 12, aims to promote the state's premium pineapples, strengthen market linkages and highlight the rich cultural heritage of Meghalaya.

The inaugural programme was attended by Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) and Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia as the Chief Guest, while Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma participated as the Guest of Honour.

Organised by the Department of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, the festival provides a platform for pineapple growers and agri-entrepreneurs to directly connect with consumers, retailers and industry stakeholders.

Focus on Farmers

The inaugural programme began with a tour of festival stalls where dignitaries interacted with farmers and entrepreneurs showcasing Meghalaya's agricultural products. A welcome session and screening of a promotional film on Meghalaya Pineapple highlighted the state's journey in developing pineapple cultivation into a major horticultural success.

A pineapple farmer also addressed the gathering, sharing experiences of cultivation, entrepreneurship and the growing opportunities available to producers through improved market access and branding initiatives.

Partnerships for Growth

One of the major highlights of the inaugural ceremony was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Flipkart and NEMIL, aimed at strengthening marketing opportunities for farmers and expanding the reach of Meghalaya's agricultural produce through digital commerce.

A brochure documenting the four editions of the Meghalaya Pineapple Festival was also released during the event, showcasing the festival's evolution and contribution to promoting the state's horticulture sector.

Celebrating Meghalaya's Produce

The festival is designed to showcase the quality and uniqueness of Meghalaya's pineapples while encouraging value addition, branding and better market connectivity for local farmers. Visitors can explore fresh pineapples, processed food products, traditional cuisine and cultural displays representing the state's diverse heritage.

The event also serves as a networking platform where farmers, startups, government agencies and private sector representatives discuss opportunities in agriculture, food processing and agribusiness.

Three-Day Festival

Running from July 10 to July 12 between 11:00 AM and 9:00 PM at Dilli Haat, the festival features product exhibitions, interactive sessions, cultural performances and business engagements aimed at promoting Meghalaya as a leading producer of high-quality pineapples.

Officials said the initiative supports the government's broader objective of improving farmers' incomes by creating stronger market linkages and increasing consumer awareness about the state's premium horticultural products.

The Meghalaya Pineapple Fest has emerged as one of the state's flagship promotional events, helping connect producers with buyers while celebrating the region's agricultural excellence and cultural identity.

Bhopal Set to Bloom with a New Global Identity

Bhopal is all set to gain a fresh and fragrant identity as Bhopal Rose City, with preparations underway to host the prestigious World Rose Convention 2028. The announcement was made by Madhya Pradesh’s Minister for Horticulture and Food Processing, Shri Narayan Singh Kushwah, during the closing ceremony of the 45th All India Rose Exhibition held in the state capital.

The two-day rose exhibition concluded on Sunday, January 11, 2026, marking a significant milestone in Bhopal’s journey toward becoming an international hub for rose cultivation, research, and garden tourism.

World Rose Convention 2028: A Global Floral Event

The World Rose Convention 2028 will bring together rose experts, researchers, growers, and horticulture professionals from nearly 40 countries. The event will include:

 International rose exhibitions

 Technical workshops on rose farming

 Discussions on gardening innovations

 Knowledge-sharing sessions on sustainable horticulture

According to Minister Kushwah, the World Rose Society and the state’s Horticulture Department will jointly work to give Bhopal a lasting identity as a Rose City. This initiative aims not only to beautify the city but also to boost tourism, employment, and environmental awareness.

Rose Gardens to Transform the City Landscape

As part of the Bhopal Rose City vision, both government and private gardens across the city will be developed into dedicated rose gardens. The existing rose garden operated by the Horticulture Department will be upgraded to meet international standards, with full support from the state government.

Citizens have also been encouraged to participate by developing small gardens at home, on terraces, or in pots. Awards and certificates are being given to both professional and hobby gardeners to promote public participation and environmental responsibility.

Floriculture Emerging as a  Opportunity

Horticulture Commissioner Shri Arvind Dubey highlighted that 2026 is being celebrated as Farmer Welfare Year in Madhya Pradesh. Under this initiative, special action plans are being implemented to promote flower cultivation.

“Floriculture is fast emerging as a major source of employment,” Dubey said, adding that educated farmers and young entrepreneurs are increasingly turning to flower farming as a profitable business.

Bhopal Wins Global Recognition

World Rose Society President Shri Sushil Prakash shared that the organization hosts a world rose conference every three years. At the 20th World Rose Convention held in Japan in 2025, Bhopal was officially selected to host the 21st World Rose Convention in 2028, bringing global recognition to Madhya Pradesh.

Winners Honored at Rose Exhibition

The event concluded with the felicitation of competition winners. The Overall Institutional Garden Championship was awarded to the Vidhan Sabha Garden. In the individual category, Mrs. Bhavna Pandey won the Overall Championship. BMHRC received the running shield for King of the Show, Princess of the Show, and Best White Rose.

Why This Matters Now

With growing interest in sustainable living, urban gardening, and green tourism, the Bhopal Rose City initiative aligns perfectly with current lifestyle and cultural trends. Hosting the World Rose Convention 2028 places Bhopal on the global map, promising long-term economic, environmental, and cultural benefits for the city and its people.