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Tamil Nadu Agricultural University’s Department of Agricultural Entomology and M/s.Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) has jointly organised the CSR Initiative of IOCL Project Madhuram, "Training on Beekeeping and Distribution of Beekeeping Appliances" for the Tribal People of Palamalai, Coimbatore.
The project “Madhuram” aims to promote awareness about beekeeping and endorse honey production as an alternate source of income generation. The mandatory training under the ongoing scheme "Promoting Scientific Beekeeping among Tribal People of Palamalai, Coimbatore District, Tamil Nadu for Improving Livelihood and Enhancing Nutritional Security" was organized by the Dept. of Agrl. Entomology at the Palamalai Village, Naickenpalayam Panchayat, Periyanaickenpalayam block, Coimbatore district on 28.08.2024. The participants were mainly from the Perumbathi, Kunjoorpathi, Perukkapathi, and Manguli hamlets of Palamalai.
Dr. V.R. Saminathan, Professor, Department of Agricultural Entomology explained the inspection of Indian honey bee colonies. He explained various honey bee species, types, and colony organisation to the tribal people. He described bee colony members, viz., queen, drone and workers and seasonal management of bee colonies, dividing and uniting of colonies and harvesting of honey. Then, he mentioned that beekeeping adds additional income to farmers and tribals producing bee products such as honey, pollen, wax, and propolis, gives peace of mind and envisages confidence among the folks.
Dr. G. Preetha, Assoc. Professor, Department of Agricultural Entomology explained that artificial feeding is essential to the bees during dearth periods like summer and winter. Both sugar (1kg) and water (1 L) should be mixed in a ratio of 1:1 and provided to the bee colonies at 200 ml/hive. People can use bee veils, gloves, and smokers to be protected from bee stings. Honey can be extracted from the sealed super frame using an extractor by centrifugal force. Later, she shared his experience in beekeeping with the tribal people.
Dr. C. Sowmiya, SRF, Department of Entomology explained the different types pest and diseases on honey bees and their control measures. Also, she has given a note regarding various bee flora in and around Palamalai Hills for honey bee foraging. Also, she demonstrating smoker usage for handling of bees and extraction of honey with honey extractor.
L. Vellingiri, representative of Perukapathy, successfully maintained bee colonies at his backyard area. He talked about how the bee colonies are in good condition. Nowadays, he handles the bees without using gloves or a veil. Honey is extracted from the colonies twice, and it's very beneficial for people. Honey is not only nutritious but also helpful in various ways. It also shows the beekeepers' connection with the bees, treating them almost like pets.