TURA, June 3: A two-day state-level seminar on scientific honey beekeeping integrated with oilseed cultivation began at the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) Tura Campus on Wednesday, with experts highlighting the growing role of apiculture in improving crop productivity and creating sustainable rural livelihoods.
The seminar, jointly organised by the National Institute for Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (ni-msme), Hyderabad, and the Department of Agribusiness Management and Food Technology, NEHU Tura Campus, has brought together around 250 participants, including farmers, beekeepers, entrepreneurs, students and officials.
Sponsored under the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM) of the Government of India, the event is being held in collaboration with the Meghalaya Basin Development Authority (MBDA), West Garo Hills.
The seminar is focusing on the integration of honeybee colonies with oilseed farming to improve cross-pollination and enhance agricultural productivity, while also generating additional income for farmers through honey, beeswax, propolis and bee pollen production.
Addressing the inaugural session, Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills Vibhor Aggarwal said scientific beekeeping could emerge as a key livelihood opportunity for rural communities while supporting agricultural diversification in Meghalaya.
The inaugural programme was attended by NEHU Tura Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof. F.K. Marak, Assistant Commissioner Saurabh Suman and faculty members of the university. Entrepreneur Randhita Sangma also shared her field experiences in beekeeping and was felicitated during the event.
Technical sessions during the seminar cover topics such as integration of apiculture with oilseed crops, institutional support mechanisms, scientific honey processing, value addition, marketing innovations and entrepreneurship opportunities in the honey sector. Experts are also sharing practical experiences on handling wild bees and stingless bees.
An exhibition showcasing beekeeping-related initiatives and products has also been organised alongside the seminar. The event will conclude on June 4 with a valedictory session and certificate distribution programme.
