Jiribam district has launched a seven-day training programme on scientific beekeeping, aiming to strengthen sustainable livelihood options for farmers, youth, and self-help groups. The programme opened on Tuesday at the Training Hall of the Cashewnut Development Officer, organised by the Department of Horticulture and Soil Conservation in collaboration with the Manipur Beekeeping and Honey Mission and funded by the National Bee Board.
The inaugural session was attended by Deputy Commissioner Krishna Kumar; Additional Deputy Commissioner Th. Manoranjan Singh; Cashewnut Development Officer Yambem Pradeep Singh; and Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer Mk. Naeem Ahamed Shah.
Addressing the participants, the Deputy Commissioner underscored beekeeping’s potential as a profitable rural enterprise that also enhances ecological balance. He encouraged trainees to adopt scientific techniques to improve honey yield and support biodiversity.
Over the week, participants will receive both classroom instruction and intensive field demonstrations covering honeybee species and behaviour, apiary site selection, seasonal colony care, feeding practices, colony division, and honey extraction. Thirty individuals from various villages across Jiribam have enrolled in the training.
The Cashewnut Development Officer noted that technical guidance and follow-up support will be extended to those wishing to set up apiary units. Participants said the sessions have inspired them to pursue beekeeping as an additional source of income.
