TNAU hosts "Within State Training on Scientific Beekeeping"

TNAU’s Department of Agricultural Entomology inaugurated "Within State Training on Scientific Beekeeping" - 7 days training program (28.11.2024 to 04.12.2024) on 28.11.2024, under the National Bee Board (NBB) scheme with 25 beneficiaries/farmers from various districts of Tamil Nadu participating in the event. 

Dr. Tamil Vendhan, Registrar, TNAU presided over the event and delivered an insightful speech. He described honeybees as extraordinary creatures with remarkable memory, capable of remembering pasturage and communicating through their unique dance. He expressed amazement at their ability to learn and construct combs within their short lifespan of 35–40 days. He also emphasized the numerous benefits of beekeeping for individuals, farmers, and the Nation as a whole. 

Dr.M.Shanthi, Director (CPPS), in her felicitation speech, emphasized the importance of apiculture and its relevance to agricultural production. She highlighted the value of non-honey bee products and encouraged the participants to explore honeybee rearing as a stress-relieving activity. She also noted the growing interest among rapid action force and defense personnel in learning about beekeeping. Dr.V.Balasubramani, Controller of Examinations motivated students and participants to explore entrepreneurial opportunities in beekeeping. Dr.M.R.Srinivasan, Professor of Entomology, provided an overview of the training program and acknowledged the support from the National Bee Board, New Delhi, in organizing training sessions across 19 districts of Tamil Nadu through KVKs and agricultural colleges.

Dr.M.Murugan, Professor and Head, Department of Agricultural Entomology welcomed the participants and introduced the objectives of the training program. Over the seven days, participants will be given training on various topics, including the importance of beekeeping, bee species and behavior, pasturage, pests and diseases management, bee products and value addition, their role in pollination, honey extraction, quality control and testing, bee poisoning, seasonal management, and business opportunities in beekeeping. Finally, Dr.V.R.Saminathan, Professor (Entomology) delivered the vote of thanks. He thanked the Scientists and Research Fellows for attending the meeting and joining hands in conducting this training programme.