Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 04 February 2025
The Department of Agriculture, Andaman and Nicobar Administration, in collaboration with the National Bee Board, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, New Delhi, is conducting a two-day District-Level Training Programme on ‘Scientific Beekeeping – Role of Bees in Agriculture and its Economics.’
The training programme was inaugurated on February 3 at the Conference Hall of the Zonal Agriculture Office, Goalghar, South Andaman. Dr. Jai Sunder, Director (i/c) of CIARI, graced the occasion as the chief guest, while Padma Shri awardee Mrs. Chellammal attended as the guest of honour.
Aimed at enhancing knowledge and skills in scientific beekeeping, the initiative highlights the crucial role of bees in agriculture. Beekeeping significantly contributes to crop pollination, biodiversity conservation, rural livelihood development, and environmental sustainability.
In his address, Dr. Jai Sunder emphasized the significance of scientific beekeeping in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, given its rich biodiversity, extensive forest cover, and favorable climate. He encouraged farmers and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to adopt beekeeping, not only for honey production but also for its pollination benefits, which can boost agricultural yields. Additionally, he highlighted beekeeping as a viable self-employment opportunity.
Guest of honour Mrs. Chellammal underscored the importance of honey bee preservation for increased agricultural production. She shared her personal experiences and insights into the benefits of beekeeping.
Earlier, Dr. S.C. Rekha, Joint Director (I/c) (Agri., HQ), welcomed the participants and elaborated on the Department’s initiatives related to beekeeping and its agricultural significance.
The technical sessions featured expert insights from resource persons from CIARI and the Department of Agriculture. Dr. Raj Narayan, Head of Horticulture at CIARI, spoke on the role of beekeeping in horticulture, while Mr. D. Nagarajan, Assistant Director (Agri.), explained bee colonies and their communication. Mr. Ravi Ch. Sutherdhar, Agriculture Officer, provided practical guidance on the assembly and installation of beehives.
Dr. S.C. Rekha led a discussion on ‘Developing Sustainable Beekeeping Practices,’ emphasizing eco-friendly methods, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable agriculture. Mr. Navasakti, Assistant Director (Agri.), provided an in-depth session on honey bee health and disease management, while Ms. Pitchammal Beevi, Agriculture Officer and In-charge of HVADA, shared insights on honey bee management.
The first day concluded with an interactive Q&A session, allowing farmers to seek expert advice on improving their beekeeping skills.
A total of 94 participants, including beekeepers, SHG members, and extension functionaries from the Department of Agriculture, actively engaged in the training programme, gaining valuable knowledge on scientific beekeeping techniques.
The programme continues today with further technical sessions and practical demonstrations aimed at empowering local farmers and beekeepers with sustainable beekeeping practices.