(a) whether the Government have launched any project for promotion of bee-keeping and capacity building for the benefit of Bee-keepers and Bee-hunters;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether National Seminar on Bee-keeping was held recently in New Delhi;
(d) if so, the issues discussed in the Seminar; and
(e) the result likely to be achieved therefrom?
THE MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) IN THE MINISTRY OF SMALL SCALE INDUSTRIES AND AGRO AND RURAL INDUSTRIES (SMT. VASUNDHARA RAJE)
(a) & (b): The Khadi & Village Industries Commission (KVIC) is implementing a UNDP assisted sub-programme in which one of the focus areas is bee-keeping. The sub-programme is aimed to develop a comprehensive strategy and initiatives in the bee-keeping sector. This programme would support the existing KVIC programme of development of bee-keeping through identified clusters and micro-entrepreneurs. The primary focus is to increase honey production, which will help in enhancing income for bee-hunters, farmers and entrepreneuers.
(c): Yes, Sir.
(d) & (e): The issues discussed in the Seminar inter-alia included bee management, processing, quality control, export and marketing of honey. The proceedings of the Seminar are likely to result in increase in honey production as well as increase in income to bee-keepers/hunters and honey processors.