State Level Bee Exhibition commences
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, February 22 2024:
Pointing out that Manipur's climatic condition is favourable for producing honey on large scale, Manipur University vice chancellor Prof N Lokendro has appealed to all concerned to contribute their mite in making Manipur a honey producing state in the country.
Speaking as chief guest of the inaugural function of a three-day State Level Bee Exhibition organised jointly by Manipur University Department of Zoology and Manipur Beekeepers' Federation under the aegis of North Eastern Council, Shillong, at the university's court hall, on Thursday, Prof Lokendro called upon researchers and scientists to explore why many plants and industries including the Khansari Mill, Manitron, Cycle industry, paper supplying plant, etc., in Manipur failed to sustain for long.
He also pointed out that compared to high nutritional value of locally grown rice, yet farmers are not able to produce rice in large quantity consequently affecting their economy.
Noting that many are now focusing on fish rearing rather than planting paddy crop, the vice chancellor confided that Manipur University is planning to rear Mahseer fish which weighs around 5 kg by developing hatchery units.
Though not everyone consumes honey, its commercial value is very high and has high potential for income generation, Prof Lokendro maintained.
He also noted that in-spite of Manipur producing honey since time immemorial, the state is not in a position to meet the global demand, regardless of the fact the climatic condition of the state serves as a luxuriant vegetation for the bees.
Utilising this opportunity, we need to plant more fruit-bearing trees as well as citrus fruits which will help develop economy of the state, he suggested.
The vice chancellor also emphasised the importance of enhancing honey production and registering for GI tag which will not only enhance source of income generation for the bee farmers but also develop economy of the state to a large extent.
Presided over by Manipur University School of Life Sciences dean Prof GKN Chettry, the inaugural function was also attended by Department of Zoology head Prof Th Binoy Singh, KVK Bishnupur director Kh Brajamani Meetei and Manipur Beekeepers' Federation president S Nilakomol as guests of honour.
Around 80 persons are taking part in the training programme.