The seven-day training program on Scientific Beekeeping organized by the Apiculture Development Scheme, Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare Department Jammu, under the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM) ended today here at the Conference Hall of Directorate of Agriculture Krishi Bhawan Jammu with the felicitation of 50 attendee farmers and beekeepers drawn from across the Jammu Division.
The program, held from February 10 to February 16, 2025, was designed to raise awareness and enhance the skills of prospective beekeepers. Participants received training in bee hive operations and colony management at the DCTC, Apiculture Development Scheme Jammu. They were imparted hands-on experience and practical insights into beekeeping.
The event was presided over by Director Agriculture Jammu, S. Arvinder Singh Reen, who felicitated the beekeepers. He presented them with Tool Kits, bee flora saplings, and certificates of participation, acknowledging their commitment to advancing scientific beekeeping practices.
The Director assured the beekeepers that the department would extend support in the marketing and branding of honey products. He encouraged beekeepers to work in clusters or form Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) to strengthen the marketing and sales of honey. He also pledged the department’s technical and financial assistance, particularly to support the migration of bee colonies and optimize honey production.
The Director highlighted the economic potential of various hive products such as royal jelly, bee venom, propolis and pollen, which could provide valuable additional sources of income for beekeepers. Deputy Director (Central) Jammu and Liaison Officer for the Apiculture Development Scheme, Dr. Ashwani Sharma, also addressed the gathering, focusing on the migration challenges faced by beekeepers.
He emphasized the need for creating a green corridor to ensure that bees do not suffer during migration. Dr. Sharma urged Director Agriculture to consider this initiative to facilitate smoother and healthier migration of bee colonies, thereby supporting beekeepers' mobility without harming their colonies.
The session also included an interactive feedback segment led by Assistant Entomologist Rajesh Verma, during which participants shared their positive experiences and satisfaction with the quality and relevance of the training. The beekeepers expressed appreciation for the comprehensive lectures and practical training that equipped them with essential skills to improve their beekeeping practices.
The proceedings of the program were conducted by the team of the Apiculture Development Scheme Jammu.