Honey Festival showcases beekeeping innovation at KVK Samba
Jammu, Jan 15: The Apiculture Development Scheme under the Directorate of Agriculture Jammu organized a Honey Festival at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Samba, as part of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP). Director Agriculture Jammu, S. Arvinder Singh Reen, honored local beekeepers and entrepreneurs from District Samba during the concluding session.
Progressive beekeepers and entrepreneurs demonstrated the latest techniques and innovations in apiculture through various exhibits. HADP’s Apiculture Scheme beneficiaries provided hands-on demonstrations of beekeeping practices, creating an interactive learning environment for attendees.
The festival served as a platform for industry stakeholders to exchange knowledge and best practices while promoting the consumption of pure, high-quality honey to support the local beekeeping industry. The event drew significant participation from beekeepers, farmers, entrepreneurs, and agriculture department officials.
Addressing beekeepers and farmers representing various Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and NGOs, Director Reen encouraged local youth to pursue beekeeping as a viable career option. He emphasized the importance of strengthening and promoting Apis cerana indica (Indian bee) for better market returns.
“Beekeeping not only contributes to the agricultural economy but also plays a crucial role in pollination, which is essential for the growth of many crops,” said Reen. “Through events like this, we aim to promote innovative practices, encourage youth participation, and ensure the growth of this vital sector.”
The Director also highlighted SKUAST Jammu’s significant role in advancing apiculture research and development in the region, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among researchers, farmers, and entrepreneurs to promote sustainable practices.
Additional District Development Commissioner Samba, Champa Devi, inaugurated the festival, accompanied by Chief Agriculture Officer Samba, S. M.G Singh; Dr. Sanjay Khajuria, Head KVK Samba; Rajesh Verma, Assistant Entomologist, Jammu; S. Harvinder Singh, DAO (Ext.) Samba; and other department officials.