So, What's a Queen Pineapple?
Forget the large, tart pineapples you might be used to. The Queen Pineapple is a different beast altogether. Smaller, with a distinctive spiny, golden-yellow exterior, its real magic lies within. The flesh is exceptionally sweet, intensely aromatic, and
has a lower fibre content, making it incredibly juicy and pleasant to eat. Its unique taste and quality are so specific to its growing region that it was awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2015, certifying its origin and unique characteristics. Declared Tripura's state fruit in 2018, this pineapple is not just produce; it's a piece of the state's natural heritage.
The Tripura Connection
The Queen Pineapple is deeply rooted in the soil and culture of Tripura. For generations, tribal communities and local farmers in the state's hilly, humid terrain have cultivated this fruit, often using organic methods with minimal chemical intervention. The favourable climate and fertile soil allow the fruit to develop its signature sweetness and aroma. For thousands of farmers, many from tribal communities, pineapple cultivation is not just a job but a vital source of livelihood and a symbol of cultural pride and economic stability. There's even a local saying that the pineapple will never betray them, providing a reliable income when other crops might fail.
The Spotlight in Delhi
The recent buzz in Delhi is no accident. It's the result of a concerted effort to bring this northeastern gem to a wider audience. The Tripura government recently organized the 'Tripura Global Pineapple Festival' in New Delhi from June 27-29, 2026, to coincide with International Pineapple Day. This event, held at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, brought together farmers, buyers, and policymakers to showcase not just the fresh fruit but also value-added products like juices, jams, and even handicrafts. This festival is a key part of 'Mission Queen Pineapple', a government initiative aiming to significantly boost the fruit's economic value and strengthen the supply chain from farm to market.
More Than Just a Fruit Trend
While Delhi's foodies get to enjoy a delicious new treat, the impact of this trend goes much deeper. The push to popularise the Queen Pineapple is creating tangible economic benefits for Tripura's farmers. The government's mission includes plans to expand cultivation area, establish better storage and transport infrastructure like cold storage and refrigerated vans, and set up processing units. There are even plans for extracting bromelain, an enzyme used in pharmaceuticals, and using pineapple leaves to create sustainable fibre for the fashion industry. By creating a robust market, these initiatives aim to increase farmer incomes, reduce post-harvest losses, and build a sustainable rural economy.
How to Best Enjoy the Queen
If you manage to get your hands on a Queen Pineapple, you're in for a treat. Look for one that is golden-yellow and gives off a fragrant, sweet smell. Unlike some fruits, pineapples don't ripen further after being picked, so what you see is what you get. The beauty of the Queen variety is its natural sweetness, which makes it perfect for eating fresh. Simply slice it up and enjoy its incredible flavour. It's also delicious in juices, salads, or as a gourmet topping on desserts. Because of its low fibre content, it's less stringy than other varieties, offering a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
