Prime Minister Emphasizes Importance of Beekeeping to Fulfill Mahatma Gandhi’s Vision
Pune, May 20, 2023: In line with Mahatma Gandhi’s vision and the call for “श्वेत क्रांति के साथ स्वीट क्रांति की भी जरूरत है” (the need for a sweet revolution along with the white revolution), the Prime Minister has underscored the significance of beekeeping. To advance this cause, the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) has launched a mission to support beekeepers and farmers.
On the occasion of World Bee Day, celebrated on May 20 to raise awareness about the vital role of bees and pollinators in maintaining human health and addressing various challenges, KVIC commemorated its Diamond Jubilee. The event took place at the KVIC’s Central Bee Research and Training Institute (CBRTI) in Pune and featured several programs related to bee conservation and honey processing. These activities included the inauguration of a honey parlour and exhibition, distribution of tools, release of a souvenir, screening of a short film on the CBRTI’s journey, and recognition of scientists, beekeepers, and Commission employees for their outstanding contributions in the field of beekeeping.
The Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Shri Narayan Rane, inaugurated the event digitally by virtually distributing 800 bee boxes to beekeepers. During his address, he shared that this year witnessed the production of 133,200 metric tonnes of honey, with sales reaching Rs. 30,000 crores. Furthermore, a margin money subsidy of approximately Rs. 300 crore (Rs. 299.97) has been disbursed under the PMEGP Scheme.
Minister of State for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Shri Bhanu Pratap Singh Verma, highlighted the significant contributions of the MSME sector, which accounts for one-third of the total GDP and contributes 48% to total exports. He also mentioned that per capita income has increased from 8,500 to 1.95 lakhs as a result.
Expressing his appreciation for the Central Bee Research and Training Institute Pune on its Diamond Jubilee, the Minister of State for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises commended the institute for its efforts in fostering economic self-reliance through bee rearing and honey production. He also unveiled a souvenir published by the Central Bee Research and Training Institute and honored scientists, beekeepers, and Commission employees for their exceptional work in the field of beekeeping.
Chairman of KVIC, Shri Manoj Kumar, highlighted the organization’s commitment to supporting beekeepers and saving bees, which are crucial for human life, as part of the self-reliance movement. He emphasized that KVIC initiated the Honey Mission, distributing over 186,000 bee boxes and providing 18,600 direct employments since its inception in 2017-18. This initiative has contributed to a 25% to 40% increase in agricultural production. Additionally, Chairman Kumar announced a 35% increase in the income of khadi artisans, resulting in a 150% overall increase in their earnings. He also mentioned the disbursal of a margin money subsidy of approximately Rs. 300 crore (Rs. 299.97), benefiting 819 beneficiaries and approving loans amounting to about Rs. 948 crore. This initiative is expected to generate employment opportunities for approximately 55,000 individuals. Furthermore, CBRTI has trained more than 50,000 people in beekeeping.
Chairman Kumar emphasized that this scheme is part of the comprehensive “Local to Global” campaign launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
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