OCT 17:Minister Javid Ahmad Dar inaugurated a two-day National Seminar on Scientific Honey Beekeeping at the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora, underscoring the transformative potential of apiculture in enhancing agri-tech innovation, rural livelihoods, and biodiversity conservation. The event brought together scientists, researchers, policymakers, and progressive beekeepers from across India to deliberate on sustainable and scientific practices in honey production.
In his inaugural address, the Minister emphasized that scientific beekeeping is emerging as a key component of modern agriculture, contributing not only to rural income generation but also to improved crop yields through pollination. He highlighted that Jammu and Kashmir’s unique climatic conditions and floral diversity make it ideally suited for producing high-quality honey that can compete in global markets.
Minister Dar reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting agri-entrepreneurship, capacity building, and value addition in the honey sector. He called upon universities and research institutions to develop technology-driven solutions that enhance productivity while maintaining ecological balance.
The seminar, organized by IUST’s Department of Food Technology in collaboration with national apiculture bodies, featured technical sessions on bee health management, honey quality testing, innovation in hive design, and international market access. Experts discussed branding and certification strategies for Kashmiri honey, promoting it as a premium natural product known for its purity, aroma, and medicinal value.
Participants also deliberated on the integration of beekeeping with other rural enterprises, such as horticulture and organic farming, to ensure sustainable livelihoods for farmers and youth.
The two-day event concluded with a call for greater research collaborations, policy support, and public awareness to make honey beekeeping a viable agri-tech enterprise. The IUST seminar thus reinforced the role of innovation and science in safeguarding both biodiversity and rural prosperity.