Shillong: The forthcoming Strawberry Festival 2026 will be organised by the Meghalaya govt across three key farming clusters — Smit, Sohliya, and Tura — highlighting the state’s expanding strawberry cultivation and providing direct market access for farmers during the peak harvest season.According to the horticulture department, the festival will be held at Smit village (Wah-Iing-Syiem meadows, East Khasi Hills district) from Feb 25-28, followed by events at Sohliya (football ground, Umsning, Ri-Bhoi district) and Darechikgre, Tura (West Garo Hills district) from March 4-7.Strawberry cultivation in Meghalaya began in Sohliya in 1988 with just 50 saplings. With the introduction of drip irrigation in 2004 and sustained institutional support, production has grown significantly.Currently, the state produces around 1,200 metric tonnes of strawberries annually, with farming spread across more than 250 villages and involving over 4,000 farmers.Backed by govt initiatives, farm-gate prices have improved, cold chain infrastructure and processing units have been established, and partnerships with the Institute of Hotel Management, Shillong, have enabled value-added product development. The govt is also prioritising high-value fruits and flowers to boost farmer incomes.In his state budget speech on Monday, chief minister Conrad K Sangma announced that the sweeter Japanese Tochiotome variety will be introduced in Meghalaya in the next financial year, strengthening the state’s market position and multiplying returns for growers.During the festival, visitors can enjoy strawberry picking, farm visits, and tasting sessions. Live performances under the CM’s Meghalaya grassroots music programme and local food stalls will add to the festivities.“The festival serves as a direct platform for farmers to sell fresh strawberries and value-added products such as jams, juices, desserts, and other processed items. It strengthens farmer-buyer linkages, promotes local entrepreneurship, and enhances agro-tourism in the state,” the official statement said.
