The Director of Agriculture Jammu, S. Arvinder Singh Reen today released a Souvenir on Scientific Beekeeping here at the concluding session of a two-day seminar on scientific beekeeping held under the aegis of National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM).
The event was organized by the Apiculture Development Scheme, Department of Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare Jammu, with the aim to raise awareness about the benefits of beekeeping among beekeepers, farmers, unemployed youth, women, and entrepreneurs from the Jammu division.
The souvenir is a comprehensive compilation of research, expert advice, and practical guidance on scientific beekeeping, designed to provide valuable information on modern beekeeping techniques to farmers and beekeepers in the Jammu region.
In his address,, the Director said that beekeeping is not only for honey production but also for enhancing pollination, which plays a vital role in increasing agricultural yields. “It is an eco-friendly and economically viable occupation that can significantly boost the agricultural economy while promoting biodiversity” he added.
He also stressed the importance of good packaging and marketing of honey products, urging stakeholders to focus on both increasing production and creating strong marketing strategies to enhance honey consumption.
Beekeeping, a key component of Jammu's agricultural landscape, has gained renewed focus in recent years due to its economic potential. The Director also called for collaboration among the Agriculture Department, research institutions, and local beekeepers to establish training programs, workshops, and outreach initiatives to promote the adoption of scientific beekeeping methods.
During the event, Director Agriculture felicitated and distributed certificates to progressive beekeepers of the Jammu division for their achievements. Assistant Entomologist Rajesh Verma highlighted that the souvenir covers a wide range of topics, including beekeeping equipment, hive management, disease control, and honey extraction techniques.
It also features success stories from local beekeepers who have benefited from adopting scientific beekeeping methods. Furthermore, the souvenir underscores the importance of sustainable beekeeping practices to ensure the health and longevity of bee populations.
The officers and staff of the Apiculture Development Scheme, Directorate of Agriculture Jammu, conducted the proceedings of the program.