Modern beekeeping for sustainable livelihood improvement in north eastern India

Abstract

Beekeeping is an agro-based activity which is being undertaken for producing honey and other hive products. It is considered as a non-land based income generating tiny industrial sector and it can be defined as a single job with several benefits. It supplements income and employment generation and nutritional intake of rural population. Modern beekeeping has developed significantly through the integration of technology; scientific advancements and sustainable practices. The beekeeping is one of the important sectors among various agri-entrepreneurs in the northeast hilly (NEH) region. It has been a part of the traditional agricultural practices in this region for centuries. It can promote economic growth and protect biodiversity. The NEH region of India with its rich floral
diversity, ideal climate and traditional knowledge of beekeeping offers immense potential for this sector. Therefore, with sustainable practices, modern management techniques, and government initiatives, beekeeping can play an important role for sustainable livelihood improvement and entrepreneurship development in this region.