Chumoukedima: Honey value addition training empowers SHG & VDVK trainers

A two-day training programme on Value Addition of Honey and its By-Products was held on February 18 and 19 at the Multi Utility Centre, Chümoukedima. The programme was organized by the Nagaland Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM) for trainers from Self Help Groups (SHGs) and Village Development and Value Chain Committees (VDVKs).
The inaugural session was graced by secretary to the chief minister and team leader of NBHM, Sentiwapang Aier, who encouraged trainees to grow collectively and make the most of the first-of-its-kind training on honey value addition in the state. He emphasized that the initiative aims to empower especially women through product development, financial literacy, resource management, and personality development, thereby strengthening collective entrepreneurship and financial independence.
The two-day programme featured intensive hands-on sessions. On the first day, trainees learned to make beeswax products such as balms, food wraps, candles, and wax blocks. The second day covered food processing techniques, hygiene and equipment, honey wine preparation, value-added honey-based food products, value chain development, entrepreneurship, packaging, labelling, and marketing strategies.
Participants shared that beeswax was previously discarded without realizing its economic potential. Through the training, they discovered its commercial value and sustainable applications. One trainee remarked that “even the bees would be proud of us for making judicious use of all natural resources.”
Resource persons included the NBHM technical team and Lovi Achumi, proprietor of Tsuipu Food Products. The valedictory session was graced by O.P. Mounglang, DGM, NABARD, who lauded the initiative and encouraged trainees to translate their newly acquired skills into sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Altogether, 25 trainees representing 17 districts participated in the programme, which marked a significant step toward strengthening the beekeeping sector in Nagaland by promoting value addition, entrepreneurship, and rural economic growth.