Youth exhorted to venture into beekeeping
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, May 21 2024:
All Manipur Beekeepers' Association (AMBA) observed World Bee Day 2024 with focus on the theme "Bee Engaged with Youth'" on Tuesday, highlighting the crucial role of bees in the ecosystem and the importance of involving young people in beekeeping and pollinator conservation.
The event took place at AMBA's office in Khundrakpam Awang Leikai Mamang Ching, drawing attention to the significant contributions of bees and the challenges they face.
According to a statement issued by AMBA, the observance was attended by social activist Maibam Rina, AMBA secretary Dr Atom Sunil (national awardee), Apunba Imagi Machasing (AIMS) president Mayanglambam Khelendro, organic farming expert & agriculturist Thokchom Biren, Apiary Warrior from New Tusom (Ukhrul) Worthing Horam, and Rural Area Development Organisation (RADO) secretary Saikhom Premjit.
Dr Atom Sunil presented a detailed history of beekeeping and highlighted that bees are essential for pollinating one-third of the food, thereby supporting biodiversity and agriculture.
Despite their importance, bees face numerous challenges, including habitat loss, climate change, pesticides, and diseases.
This year's theme, "Bee Engaged with Youth," stresses the need to involve young people in beekeeping and conservation to secure the future of these vital pollinators, he said.
The secretary also highlighted the impact of the ongoing conflict between Meetei and Kuki communities on bee farmers stating that strife has led to loss of life, displacement, and damage to property, including bee farms.
AMBA has been actively working to support affected beekeepers, helping them navigate these challenges, he said.
Maibam Rina spoke about the necessity of community support in conservation efforts and the critical role bees play in the ecosystem as Mayanglambam Khelendro underscored the economic significance of bees, and their role in pollinating various crops essential for human diets.
Thokchom Biren discussed innovative and sustainable beekeeping practices, sharing insights on organic farming techniques and habitat restoration projects.
Worthing Horam expressed his passion for nature and the importance of beekeeping, while Saikhom Premjit emphasised the need for community engagement and education in fostering a culture of conservation and stewardship.
The event concluded with a call for increased youth involvement in beekeeping and a commitment to addressing the challenges faced by bees to ensure their crucial role in the ecosystem is preserved for future generations, the statement added.