AI offers hope for beekeepers battling pest

Premchand Thongam *

AI offers hope for beekeepers battling pest :: Pix - Chronicle News Service / Premchand Thongam

As beekeeping emerges as a highly profitable yet underutilised agricultural practice, experts are now advocating for the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) to tackle persistent challenges such as bee diseases and declining honey quality.

Despite the potential to generate substantial income even on modest farmland, many farmers remain hesitant to take up beekeeping due to the recurring threat of diseases that cause widespread bee deaths or severely reduce the quality of honey. Now, experts believe that these concerns can be effectively addressed through advancements in AI .

Dr Ningthoujam Ajitkumar, a subject matter specialist in plant pathology at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Ukhrul, and an expert in beekeeping, emphasised that the practice requires minimal labour and offers substantial returns. A farmer deploying 100 to 200 bee boxes can make a good income while also benefiting crop production, as honey bees significantly boost pollination - enhancing yields by up to 80 per cent.

However, Dr Ajitkumar noted that the threat posed by diseases like Varroa mite infestations continues to discourage farmers. The Varroa mite is one of the most destructive pests affecting honey bee colonies globally, feeding on bees and potentially causing entire colonies to collapse.

To combat this, AI-enabled tools such as digital scanners and cameras can be used to detect mite infestations early, allowing for prompt intervention. Smart hives integrated with AI can also monitor critical parameters such as temperature, humidity, and signs of disease or pests inside the hive.

Other AI applications use weather forecasting data to help manage hive health and optimise beekeeping operations. "These technologies not only help prevent colony collapse but also ensure better honey quality and increased productivity," Dr Ajitkumar said.

While the initial coSt of adopting Al-based systems poses a challenge for small and marginal farmers, Dr Ajitkumar believed the long-term benefits outweigh the initial investment. Integrating AI can enhance income, protect honey bees - the most effective natural pollinators - and support sustainable agriculture.


(This article is published under the
5th Scientific Journalism Program on 'Artificial Intelligence and Its Usage'
of the Public Relations and Media Management (PRMM) Cell,
Central Agricultural University, Imphal) .