Dehradun. The Uttarakhand government is taking a major step towards promoting honey production in the state. Under the ‘Honey Mission’, a new beekeeping policy is being formulated to promote the organized development of beekeeping in the state. This is expected to significantly benefit farmers, especially marginal and women farmers.
Emphasis on Organic Certification
Work is also underway to obtain organic certification for honey produced in the state to ensure better prices in the international market. There are plans to certify honey through the state’s Seed and Organic Certification Board and make it available to the global market.
40% Subsidy to Farmers
Currently, under the Beekeeping Scheme, bee colony boxes are being provided to farmers at a 40% subsidy.
- Beekeeping training is being provided.
- An incentive of ₹1000 per day is being provided during the training period.
- Farmers are selling honey through the Horticulture Department at a rate of approximately ₹1,200 per kg.
Study of ‘Best Practices’ from Other States
The state government has decided to send a team of officials and experts to states with excellent practices in beekeeping and horticulture. The policies and procedures of these states will be studied and implemented in Uttarakhand.
Uttarakhand Ranks 8th
Uttarakhand ranks eighth in the country in honey production. The government aims to make it one of the leading states in organic honey production. Horticulture Department Secretary S.N. Pandey stated that Uttarakhand’s honey is distinguished by its quality and health. Honey production is possible even with little or no land, making it a viable option for small farmers.
Policy to Be Presented to Cabinet
A draft bee-keeping policy is being prepared and will soon be presented to the Cabinet. Under this policy, the entire value chain, from production to processing and marketing, will be developed to ensure a sustainable increase in farmers’ income. The state government believes that considering the global demand and premium price of organic products, ‘Honey Mission’ can give a new direction to the rural economy of Uttarakhand.
