Shillong, May 20: World Bee Day on the theme “Promote Bee Keeping: Augment Farmers’ Income and to ensure Sustainability of Life”, was on Friday observed at All Saints’ Hall, Shillong. The programme was organized by the Directorate of Horticulture, Government of Meghalaya.

Speaking as the Chief Guest, SC Sandhu, Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, reiterated the importance of bees in sustaining life on earth.

Stating that out of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the achievement of 15 goals relies hugely on roles played by bees, he stressed the importance of creating a conducive environment for bee development.

Sandhu further added that despite improvements, bee keepers are not exploring the full economic potential of honey by not following best practices followed across the world. To fetch better prices, he stressed on the importance of a professional approach, proper packaging, testing and traceability of product to certify the organic nature of honey produced in the State.

He also said that there is a need to explore market avenues beyond the boundaries of the State and to facilitate famers to ensure reach of products in areas of demand. Drawing attention to renewed focus on natural resource management by the Government, he informed that 75 ponds will be developed in each district of the State under the Amrit Sarovar Mission which aims at conserving water for the future.

The mission was launched as a part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav celebration.

On the occasion, honeys produced in different districts of the state were put on sale. A technical session on “Bee Keeping and its prospects in Meghalaya” was also held for attending bee keepers and entrepreneurs.