Meghalaya to Host Two-Day Strawberry Festival Celebrating Agro-Tourism and Rural Livelihoods
The State of Meghalaya is set to host a two-day Strawberry Festival on May 2 and 3, aimed at promoting agro-tourism and supporting rural livelihoods through a vibrant mix of cultural, recreational, and educational activities. The event is being organised by Meghalayan Age Limited, a State government agency, in collaboration with the Departments of Tourism and Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.
The festival will be held simultaneously at three locations — Syntung in East Khasi Hills, Sohliya in Ri-Bhoi district, and Darechigre in West Garo Hills — all regions that have witnessed remarkable growth in strawberry cultivation in recent years.
An official from the Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare noted, “The festival will celebrate the progress of strawberry farming in these areas. Visitors can pick fresh strawberries from the fields and engage with the local way of life.”
Adding to the experience, the venues will feature stalls offering a range of strawberry-based products, including wines, jams, ice creams, and traditional cakes. Workshops on jam-making and baking with locally grown strawberries are also planned, offering interactive learning opportunities for attendees.
One of the festival’s highlights will be live performances by homegrown talent, presented through the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project, alongside cultural showcases that reflect the State’s rich heritage.
Adventure enthusiasts can look forward to activities such as cycling, trekking through scenic strawberry farms, and enjoying glamping setups amidst nature. The event will also feature learning sessions on traditional wine-making, local beverages, and organic farming techniques.
The State government has been actively promoting strawberry farming, launching an initiative in 2023 to distribute saplings and planting materials to farmers. As a result, Meghalaya produced approximately 1,220 metric tonnes of strawberries in 2024, marking an increase from 1,196 metric tonnes in 2023.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, who recently met with 115 farmers at Syntung village, reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding strawberry cultivation and strengthening the rural economy. “We aim to enhance the livelihoods of our farmers and invigorate the rural economy through such initiatives,” he said.
