Jaipur, Jan 17 (NationPress) In celebration of the 263rd Foundation Day of Sawai Madhopur, the district is set to make history by launching the nation’s inaugural Guava Festival on January 18. The festival will be officially inaugurated by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Sunday at 11 a.m.

This year’s Foundation Day celebrations will uniquely combine the Tiger Festival with the Guava Festival, creating an event that showcases the region's rich wildlife heritage alongside its famous guava.

Agriculture and Horticulture Minister Dr. Kirodi Lal Meena expressed pride in hosting such a significant event for the first time in the country, highlighting its importance for both Sawai Madhopur and the state.

According to Dr. Meena, the Guava Festival is more than just a ceremonial occasion; it aims to provide a national platform for farmers to demonstrate their hard work and emphasize the agricultural prowess of the district.

Currently, guava farming in Sawai Madhopur covers over 15,000 hectares with an annual yield of approximately 4 lakh metric tonnes, contributing to a robust agricultural economy valued at Rs 6-7 billion annually.

He believes that this festival will solidify Sawai Madhopur's status as a significant hub for guava production and export, connecting farmers with essential markets, technology, and policy support, thus offering a convergence of knowledge, innovation, and opportunity.

The festival will include sessions and demonstrations focused on modern farming techniques, agricultural mechanization, drone technology, high-tech horticulture, and value addition processes.

Farmers will be updated on the latest advancements in agriculture, with a major highlight being the exhibition of value-added guava products, including juice, jelly, squash, pulp, barfi, chutney, and pickles.

Additionally, there will be exhibitions of various guava types, fruit and flower contests, and live demonstrations of farming equipment.

More than 20 nurseries from various states are expected to take part, while approximately 200 stalls will present organic and natural farming, horticultural techniques, animal husbandry, and dairy-related activities, making it a comprehensive agricultural showcase.