The Directorate of Horticulture, Department of Agriculture, Bihar is inviting applications for its Beekeeping and Honey Production Program (2023-24) to foster economic empowerment and stimulate honey-related industries. This initiative not only promotes agricultural diversification but also aligns with the 'Sweet Revolution' aimed at enhancing farmers' incomes and leveraging the state's rich agro-climatic potential.
Subsidized Beekeeping Equipment Encourages Participation
Under this scheme, the Directorate offers subsidies for two components essential for beekeeping - Bee Colony (Box + Hive) and Bee Removal Equipment and Food Grader. These are available at unit costs of 3,800 and 19,000, respectively. The subsidy provision stands at an impressive 75 percent for the General Category and an encouraging 90 percent for SC/ST categories, significantly reducing the financial burden on aspiring beekeepers.
Deadline and Application Process
Interested individuals and groups involved in or considering entering the beekeeping domain have until January 10, 2024, to submit their online applications. The application process is streamlined and accessible via the official website of the Horticulture Department, Bihar (horticulture.bihar.gov.in). This move emphasizes inclusivity, aiming to draw participation from a diverse spectrum of stakeholders interested in beekeeping.
मधुमक्खी पालन और मधु उत्पादन (2023-24) के लिए ऑनलाइन आवेदन https://t.co/h49nJmUM7T पर दिनांक 10 जनवरी 2024 तक किया जा सकता है।@KumarSarvjeet6@SAgarwal_IAS@dralokghosh@abhitwittt@Agribih@IPRD_Bihar pic.twitter.com/eV0dU5OnG5
— Directorate Of Horticulture, Deptt of Agri, Bihar (@HorticultureBih) January 2, 2024
Promoting the Sweet Revolution
In March 2023, the central government selected 17 districts of Bihar under the National Beekeeping and Honey Mission to promote the sweet revolution (honey production) in the state. Aurangabad, Bhagalpur, Bhojpur, Darbhanga, East Champaran, West Champaran, Jamui, Kishanganj, Madhubani, Muzaffarpur, Patna, Purnea, Rohtas, Samastipur, Saran, Sitamarhi, and Vaishali districts are the areas where the central and state governments will work jointly for the success of the Sweet Revolution.
The center has also sanctioned Rs 1.30 crore as the first installment, which has been sent to these districts to implement the scheme.
Empowering Communities and Promoting Sustainability
This initiative aims to bridge economic gaps and promote sustainable agricultural practices while placing additional focus on Jeevika Didis and other women's groups. Additionally, it stresses cultivating flowering plants in beekeeping areas to ensure the overall environmental health and sustained flourishing of bee populations.
Impacts on Economic Landscape and Honey Production
The availability of subsidized beekeeping equipment is expected to yield positive impacts on Bihar's economic landscape. It is anticipated to create numerous employment opportunities for agricultural and non-agricultural families, aligning with the broader objective of doubling farmers' incomes. Furthermore, the initiative is poised to augment honey production, capitalizing on Bihar's renowned litchi honey and other diverse floral resources, catering to national and international markets.
The Horticulture Department's initiative stands as a significant stride towards fostering a thriving ecosystem for beekeeping, emphasizing accessibility, sustainability, and economic empowerment. By providing substantial subsidies and encouraging participation from various segments of society, Bihar aims to bolster its position in the honey production sector while uplifting communities and promoting agricultural diversity. As the deadline approaches, the state anticipates a surge in applications, marking a promising leap in the 'Sweet Revolution' within Bihar.
