Beekeeping:A Source of Buffer Income for Farmers

In a country like India, where farmers are reeling under the distress of erratic monsoons and low profits for their products, a buffer source of income is a welcome step. In such a scenario, beekeeping is a good source of income generation and sustainable livelihood option for the farmers. On one hand, where it benefits the farmers through various value added products, on the other hand, it helps in pollination of different crops. Government organization like Krishi Vigyan Kendras are providing the farmers with pollination services through beekeeping boxes at meagre prices. The rich traditional use of honey has paved a way for sustainable livelihood for many communities across the world. However, this sector too is marred with issues like adulteration, unscientific collection practices among others. Increase in productivity and quality produce of honey would raise the economic benefits from the practice of beekeeping. Premium quality of honey production and other value added products would fetch high economic returns for communities, if technology assisted and quality assured production is done at the source level.