World Bee Day observed in Kashmir with focus on modern apiculture

Srinagar, May 20: The Directorate of Agriculture, Kashmir, marked World Bee Day with an awareness programme held at Lalmandi, Srinagar, under the chairmanship of Director Agriculture Kashmir, Muhammad Ayas Khateeb.

The event, led by the Assistant Entomologist, saw enthusiastic participation from departmental officers and farmers from across the Valley.

The programme was attended by several dignitaries, including Joint Director Agriculture (Extension) Anil Gupta, Joint Director and Project Coordinator (Mushroom) Yadvinder Singh, Deputy Director Central Dr. Qazi Showkat, Information Officer Sheikh Imran, DAO Srinagar Gulzar Ahmad, and Apiculture Development Officer Farhan Sheikh. In his address, the Director emphasised the importance of scientific bee rearing, quality honey production, and branding. He highlighted the essential role of apiculture in biodiversity conservation, crop pollination, and rural income generation. He urged farmers to adopt modern apiculture practices to boost productivity, support ecological health, and tap into emerging market opportunities.

The event provided a platform for knowledge exchange and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to integrating beekeeping into sustainable and progressive agricultural practices across Jammu and Kashmir.