Vol. 12, Issue 5 (2023)

Author(s):
Manoj Thakur, Devinder Sharma, Marvi Khajuria, Bhumika Kapoor and Virandra Yadav

Abstract:
The present study aimed to document the indigenous knowledge and traditional methods of beekeeping in Jammu region. A survey was conducted in Doda, Kishtwar and Ramban district during 2021-2022 to access the socio-economic back ground of beekeeper, honey production quantity, honey processing method, honey harvest method, constrains faced by the beekeeper. A total of 300 beekeepers were interviewed through questionnaire survey, study revealed that average age of the beekeepers was 43.20 years with average landholding and experience in beekeeping of beekeeper was 0.40 ha, 17 years, respectively. It was found that 11% of the beekeepers were exclusively dependent on farm income. The majority of the beekeepers possessed log hive followed by wall hive and honey production in log hive and wall hive was 7.67 kg and 6.93 kg/hive/season, respectively. The 68% of beekeepers harvested honey once a year while only 14% practiced honey processing. Among the diseases and enemies of honey bees, the incidence of wax moth, wasp, ant and bee eater birds was reported by 73, 45, 40%, and 34% of respondents, respectively. It was found that none of the honey had received AGMARK certification, nor was any brand name given to the honey. The average honey produced by each beekeeper was 24.24±1.44 kg and average amount of honey sold by beekeeper was 18.46±1.44 kg. Beekeepers sold honey at a higher price (Rs.907 kg^-1). Most beekeepers sell honey directly to consumers without any intermediaries in the supply chain. Except honey other bee products are not gathered by the beekeepers. The major constraint faced by beekeepers were attack of ants, attack of wax moth, lack of consultation and availability of medicine in case of disease outbreak.