Arunachal Pineapple Festival Bagra 3.0: A Promising Event for Northeast Horticulture
The Arunachal Pineapple Festival Bagra (APFB) 3.0, held in West Siang district, has emerged as a significant event for the horticulture sector in the North East region of India. This three-day festival, which concluded recently, attracted over 70 farmers from various districts and showcased a range of activities aimed at promoting pineapple cultivation and value addition.
Technical Sessions and Presentations
The technical session during the festival was a knowledge-sharing platform for experts from various institutions. Resource persons from the ICAR Arunachal Pradesh Centre, Rajiv Gandhi University, APEDA Guwahati RO, and the West Siang Horticulture Department delivered presentations on post-harvest management, value addition, financial support, and export opportunities in horticultural produce. These insights are crucial for farmers to improve their practices and tap into potential markets.
Competitions and Performances
Apart from the technical sessions, the festival also featured various competitions and performances. In the volleyball final match, Pigi-Mengo team emerged victorious, showcasing the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie among the participants. A kids' talent show competition also took place, with Gejir Ete, Kenyum Bagra, and Gebin Sora securing the top positions. These events not only provided entertainment but also served as a platform for young talents to showcase their skills.
Fruits Exhibition and Competition
The fruits exhibition competition, titled Pordokoni, was another highlight of the festival. In the pineapple category, Nyaken Bagra from Higi village took the first position, with Tumba Ango from Jini and Gebom Angu from Angu village securing the second and third positions, respectively. In the orange category, Mope Lollen from Jirdin village and Marpe Bagra Loyi from Kabu Lebok village clinched the first and second positions, while Kado Ete from Gune-Bane village and Tejum Lollen from Tadin village shared the third position. The sweet orange category saw Yabi Ete from Darka village, Moto Lollen from Kombo Pomte, and Tejum Lollen from Tadin village securing the top three positions. These results underscore the quality and diversity of fruit production in the region.
Relevance to Northeast India and Beyond
The Arunachal Pineapple Festival Bagra 3.0 is a testament to the growing potential of the horticulture sector in the Northeast region. By fostering knowledge exchange, showcasing local produce, and encouraging competition, such events can help farmers improve their practices, increase productivity, and explore market opportunities. This, in turn, can contribute to the region's economic growth and food security.
Looking Ahead
The success of the Arunachal Pineapple Festival Bagra 3.0 serves as a catalyst for similar events in the future. By continuing to support and empower farmers, the horticulture sector in the Northeast can further grow and thrive, benefiting not only the farmers but also the wider community and the nation as a whole.