Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 08 July 2024
Department of Agriculture in collaboration with the Department of Industries successfully conducted a ten-day hands-on training session on the making of bee hive boxes at the Industrial Training Center in Little Andaman. The program, held from June 26 to July 5, aimed to equip farmers and agricultural staff with essential skills to diversify their agricultural practices and boost income through beekeeping.
The training, imparted by the Department of Industries, focused on the preparation of bee hive boxes at their workshop. Six Department officials and four farmers attended the program, which emphasized the importance of self-reliance and the ability to meet the local demand for bee hive boxes.
Little Andaman, with its favourable climatic conditions, has significant potential for beekeeping, also known as apiculture. However, the availability of bee hive boxes has been a major challenge for beekeepers, progressive farmers, and entrepreneurs. This training program is expected to alleviate this issue by enabling participants to produce their own bee hive boxes.
Additionally, farmers can benefit from the National Horticulture Mission’s High Value Agriculture scheme, specifically the ‘Pollination Support through Beekeeping’ initiative offered by the Department of Agriculture. This scheme aims to further support and promote apiculture in the region.
The collaboration between the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Industries highlights a significant step towards empowering local farmers and advancing agricultural practices in Little Andaman.