The article begins with an overview of India’s recent efforts in promoting apiculture (beekeeping) through initiatives such as the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission and the Sweet Revolution. These efforts have resulted in the distribution of over 1.75 lakh bee boxes to thousands of beneficiaries, thus boosting honey production in various states.
The Advent of Honey Mission
Launched in 2017, the Honey Mission forms part of the broader strategy known as the ‘Sweet Revolution’. The initiative aims to encourage farmers and beekeepers by providing them with practical training on a variety of topics. These include learning how to examine honeybee colonies, identify and manage potential threats to these colonies, and understand the seasonal dynamics of beekeeping. Further knowledge centres on familiarisation with apicultural equipment, along with lessons on honey extraction and wax purification. The mission is overseen by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), an entity under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.
Understanding the Sweet Revolution
The ‘Sweet Revolution’ is an ambitious government project aimed at promoting beekeeping in India. In a bid to further propel this revolution, the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission was launched in 2020 under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. One of the key objectives of this initiative is to increase the production of high-quality honey and other related products, including royal jelly, beeswax, and pollen. These apiculture produce find extensive use across various industries, such as pharmaceuticals, food, beverage, beauty, and others.
The Significance of Apiculture Promotion
Through technology intervention, the mission hopes to conserve bees, prevent the loss of their colonies, and ensure quality and quantity in apiculture. Modern farming practices under this mission can yield superior honey for domestic and international markets. Apiculture not only requires low investment but is also highly skilled, making it a potent source of socioeconomic growth. By scaling up beekeeping, farmers’ income can potentially double, creating jobs, ensuring food security, preserving bees, and enhancing crop productivity.
About the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC)
The KVIC is a statutory body set up under the Khadi and Village Industries Commission Act, 1956. It is tasked with planning, promoting, organising, and implementing programmes to develop Khadi and other village industries in rural areas. This is carried out in collaboration with other agencies engaged in rural development where necessary. The KVIC operates under the umbrella of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.
The Role of National Horticulture Mission (NHM) in Apiculture
The NHM has played a significant role in increasing the production, productivity, and income of horticulture farms. It has actively contributed to raising the income of farmers—yet another key initiative of the Indian government aimed at doubling farmers’ income. The precise impact of the NHM on farmers’ income can be assessed through a detailed study of its working model and achievements.
