National Conclave on Beeswax Production – Boosting Beekeeping & Sustainability

The National Conclave on Beeswax Production took place on March 30, 2022, organized by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), Gujarat, in collaboration with the National Bee Board (NBB). The event aimed to create awareness about beeswax production, a valuable by-product of beekeeping, along with other high-value bee products such as bee pollen, royal jelly, propolis, and bee venom. Supported by NAFED and TRIFED, the conclave highlighted the growing importance of scientific beekeeping and sustainable beeswax production in India.

Beeswax Production – A Key to Economic Growth

Beekeeping Benefits for Farmers

Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Additional Secretary, Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, emphasized that beekeeping is a vital industry, offering pollination benefits, additional income, and employment opportunities for rural communities. The National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM) has implemented multiple initiatives to strengthen the beekeeping and beeswax production industry in India. The government is investing in honey collection, processing, testing, and branding infrastructure, encouraging organic and sustainable beekeeping.

Through the NBHM scheme, organizations like NDDB, NAFED, and TRIFED are helping farmers adopt beekeeping by promoting Farmers Producer Organizations (FPOs) and setting up regional beekeeping clusters.

NDDB’s Role in Beeswax Production & Beekeeping Expansion

Empowering Farmers through Local Resources

Shri Abhijit Bhattacharjee, General Manager, NDDB, stressed that farmers should maximize local resources rather than relying on imports. NDDB is actively promoting beekeeping and beeswax production through cooperative networks to enhance honey yield, reduce pesticide use, and improve income levels. This beeswax production conclave represents a crucial step in expanding the industry.

Diversifying Beekeeping for Sustainability

Generating Multiple Income Streams

Shri Meenesh Shah, Chairman, NDDB, emphasized the need for diversified income opportunities for beekeepers. In addition to honey, beeswax production and other beehive products offer lucrative financial prospects. NDDB, in collaboration with NBB, is actively supporting dairy cooperatives and FPOs to integrate beekeeping into existing agricultural practices.

To enhance awareness and skills, NDDB has conducted 40 beekeeping training sessions across India, in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendras, State Agriculture Universities, progressive beekeepers, and NBB experts. These initiatives have already benefitted over 1,100 beekeepers.

Government Support for Beeswax Production & Research

Financial Assistance for Beekeepers

Dr. Prabhat Kumar, Horticulture Commissioner, DA&FW, reiterated that honey and beeswax play a crucial role in India’s Integrated Medicinal System (IMS). He urged beekeepers to focus on value-added beekeeping products to maximize financial benefits. The NBHM scheme offers financial aid, research grants, and infrastructure development to help expand beeswax production in India.

Dr. N. K. Patle, Executive Director, NBB, encouraged beekeepers to adopt modern, scientific methods for improved yields. He assured full government support under NBHM for those involved in honey and beeswax production.

Current Status of Beeswax Production in India

Dr. Balraj Singh, Project Coordinator, Honeybee and Pollinators (HB&P), ICAR, stated that most Indian beekeepers focus only on honey, neglecting other profitable beehive products like beeswax. He emphasized the need for diversifying beekeeping businesses to include beeswax production.

In India, the deserted combs of Apis dorsata serve as the primary source of beeswax. However, scientific beekeeping can significantly increase domestic beeswax production, reducing dependence on imports.

Insights from Beekeeping Experts

Technology & Equipment for Beeswax Production

  • Shri Dipenkumar C Patel, Director, One Bee Organic LLP, Gujarat, introduced various types of honey, bee products, and specialized equipment for efficient beeswax collection.
  • Shri Jaswant Singh, Tiwana Bee Farm, Punjab, discussed how Comb Foundation Sheets (CFS) made from beeswax improve efficiency. CFS helps honeybees build combs faster, increasing honey and beeswax production per hive.

Ensuring Quality & Traceability in Beeswax Production

Blockchain-Based Honey & Beeswax Tracking

Shri Jai Prakash, Senior Manager, Indian Bank, addressed concerns regarding honey adulteration. He introduced the Madhukranti Portal, a blockchain-based traceability system for honey and beeswax products. This platform enables beekeepers and stakeholders to register online, ensuring quality control and transparency.