A virtual workshop on “promotion of bee-keeping in Northeast and Himalayan region” was organised by Central Institute of Horticulture (CIH) Nagaland in collaboration with National Bee Board on September 14.
A press release by CIH Nagaland stated that the objective of the programme was to bring bee-keepers and experts together in a common platform to create awareness on policies of NBHM and to discuss on issues related to bee-keeping for promotion and further improvement of honey sector in Northeast and Himalayan region.
In a keynote address, additional secretary DA&FW, government of India, Dr. Abilaksh Likhi emphasised on utilizing the benefits of schemes under national bee-keeping and honey mission. He stressed on the importance of capacity building and developing more agri start-ups in honey industry.
Agriculture and horticulture commissioner, DA&FW, government of India and mission director, NBHM, Dr. S.K. Malhotra provided an overview of national bee-keeping and honey mission and emphasized on the need of testing labs for quality honey production.
Additional commissioner (Hort.) DA&FW and executive director, national bee board, Dr. N.K. Patle elaborated on the guidelines of NBHM and also explained about the mini missions and the online registration process for bee-keepers in Madhukranti portal.
Beekeepers and honey entrepreneurs from across Northeast and Himalayan region also shared their experiences and showcased their products during the inaugural programme.
During the technical session, the resource persons discussed and interacted with participants on topics such as; creation of FPOs, establishment of integrated bee keeping development centers and scenario of bee-keeping in Nagaland.
The resource persons were representatives from NAFED and Indian Bank, Nodal officer, Nagaland Beekeeping & Honey Mission and Deputy Director (Hort.), Integrated Beekeeping Development Centre, Haryana. The programme was virtually attended by more than 300 participants and concluded with a vote of thanks by marketing specialist, CIH Prabin Das and senior technical assistant, CIH Marina compered the whole proceeding.