The scenic village of Takpu Bagra in West Siang district is set to host a vibrant celebration of agriculture and culture. The third edition of the Arunachal Pineapple Festival-Bagra (APFB) will unfold from January 16 to 18, 2026, promising a unique blend of festivities focused on the region's famed fruit.
A Festival Born from Community Grit
Initiated in 2023, the festival was conceived to shine a spotlight on the exceptional quality of pineapples grown in the Bagra area. For years, these fruits remained relatively unknown, hindered by limited processing options and access to wider markets. According to Dr. Gerik Bagra, the festival's media and publicity in-charge, the event is a testament to local determination. "This festival is more than events — it’s a saga of community grit transforming isolation into invitation," he stated.
The first two successful editions in 2024 and 2025, held in Higi Bagra, garnered strong state backing. This included a special Rs 4 crore package to promote pineapple cultivation. That support, coupled with the festival's growing reputation, has already begun to yield results. Dr. Bagra reported a significant surge in interest from buyers, factory owners, and exporters following the 2025 event.
Sweetness, Culture, and Economic Uplift
Takpu Bagra village, located about 16 km from Aalo (the district headquarters), is renowned for producing pineapples of remarkable sweetness. Scientific measurements show these fruits achieve a Brix level of 17 degrees in winter and contain 0.90% Vitamin C.
The festival program is designed to celebrate this natural bounty while driving economic progress. Key highlights include:
- Exhibition stalls showcasing pineapple products, local delicacies, and handicrafts.
- Vibrant cultural performances highlighting the rich heritage of the Galo tribe.
- Technical and training sessions for farmers on value-added processing.
- Sports competitions to engage the community and visitors.
Dr. Bagra, who also serves as assistant central technology officer at the ICAR Regional Centre for NEH Region, emphasized that the festival will highlight crucial government schemes like the Atma Nirbhar Krishi Yojana and Atma Nirbhar Bagbani Yojana. These initiatives aim to bolster the local economy and directly improve farmers' livelihoods.
A State-Ingaugurated Celebration
The event will be formally inaugurated by Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on January 16. The state's high-level participation underscores the festival's importance in promoting regional agro-products and tourism.
Beyond the economic agenda, the festival serves as an open invitation to experience the famed hospitality of the Galo community. Visitors can expect an immersive experience, savoring the naturally sweet pineapples and enjoying the cultural tapestry of West Siang. The previous editions have set a high standard, with exhibition stalls and cultural shows receiving an enthusiastic response, paving the way for an even bigger and sweeter celebration in 2026.
