In October, as winter approaches in the Kashmir Valley, 45-year-old beekeeper Mohammad Amin Wani from Pulwama, along with two associates, sets out on a journey to Rajasthan. After spending 6-7 months in the warmer regions, they return to Kashmir in May. This seasonal migration is vital for the survival of the bees and the health of the hives, ensuring honey production and keeping the beekeeping industry thriving. Wani and other beekeepers move their hives to warmer areas like Rajasthan, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh during the winter.

Bullets:

• Beekeepers in Kashmir migrate to Rajasthan, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh during winters to ensure bees’ survival and maintain honey production.
• The migration helps bees collect nectar and pollen, especially from mustard fields, enhancing hive health and productivity.
• Mohammad Amin Wani has been practicing seasonal beekeeping for over 20 years, managing 350 hives and producing about 4,000 kg of honey annually.
• Wani earns 15-20 lakh INR per year from beekeeping and employs assistants at a monthly wage of 30,000 INR.
• Kashmir’s annual honey production is about 22,000 quintals (22 lakh kg), with a significant portion exported.
• Beekeeping in Kashmir offers substantial income opportunities, with educated youth, like filmmaker Faizal Simon, getting involved in the industry.
• Faizal Simon, who started beekeeping in 2020, manages over 200 hives, producing about 1,000 kg of honey annually.
• Beekeepers are allowed to place their hives near mustard fields, benefiting both the crops and the bees. Honey from mustard flowers sells for 400-500 INR per kg.
• Kashmir honey is considered one of the best in India, being organic and produced from nectar collected from acacia trees, free from pesticides.
• The Kashmir Agriculture Department is promoting beekeeping as a rural industry, providing financial and technical support to farmers under various government schemes.