Honey Bee Fest enlightens Ukhrul

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Dec 19 : A two-day district-level "Honey Bee Festival-cum-Honey Product Expo" was held at DRDA Hall, Mini Secretariat, Ukhrul, on December 15 and 16 under the theme “Be the Change, Save the Bee.”
The event brought together beekeepers, farmers, officials, and experts to promote scientific beekeeping, ecological conservation, and sustainable rural livelihood, said a press release issued by Development for Rural People (DRP).
The programme was sponsored by the North Eastern Council (NEC), Shillong, under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER). It was implemented by the Horticulture and Soil Conservation Department, Government of Manipur, and organised by DRP.
The inaugural function was graced by Thaithuilung Pamei, IAS, Commissioner, Horticulture and Soil Conservation as the chief guest.
In his address, the Commissioner noted that areas like Ukhrul, particularly during the flowering season of Kachai lemon, offer favourable conditions for producing high-quality honey with superior taste and texture.
He also informed participants that training certificates would enable them to access farm loans and various Government schemes in the future.
The inaugural session was attended by Sword Vashum, president, Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL); K Debadutta Sharma, Director, H≻ Mangsatabam Iboyaima Meitei, Advisor, NEC Shillong and Chungong Pamei, Director, Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture, Manipur, as guests of honour.
On the second day, Dinringam Kangmei, SDO Ukhrul, graced the function as chief guest.
He underscored the vital link between biodiversity, ecological balance, and sustainable agriculture, urging participants to “be the change and save the bees” for securing livelihoods.
The event featured technical sessions, live beehive competitions, and exhibitions, with active participation from beekeepers across Ukhrul district.