STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: The Department of Agriculture, Jammu, marked World Bee Day with enthusiasm and commitment across the Jammu Division. The central event was held at Krishi Bhawan, Talab Tillo, under the global theme “Bee inspired by nature to nourish us all.”The event emphasized the critical role of bees in pollination, biodiversity, and food security.
Director Agriculture Jammu, S. Arvinder Singh Reen, presided over the function and stressed the ecological and economic value of bees. “Bees are vital contributors to our food systems. Jammu has immense potential for commercial beekeeping which can generate sustainable income for our farmers,” he said. He highlighted key initiatives like honey testing labs, diagnostic centres, and processing units that support quality production.Progressive beekeepers including Babli Devi, Neelam Devi (Samba), Jeffi Kumari, Rajinder Baru, and young entrepreneur Vasu Sharma shared their success stories in honey production and sustainable practices. The event began with a welcome address by Rajesh Verma, Assistant Entomologist, Apiculture Development Scheme, who outlined the global relevance of World Bee Day.The Director urged farmers to adopt pollinator-friendly practices, plant native flowers, reduce pesticide use, and support local honey producers.The event saw participation from senior officers including Joint Directors, Deputy Directors, Subject Matter Specialists, and a large number of farmers and beekeepers. The programme was hosted by the Apiculture Development Scheme, Jammu, and coordinated smoothly by AEA Veena Wazir.