National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM)

Introduction

The National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM) is an initiative by the Government of India aimed at promoting beekeeping and the production of honey. This mission focuses on enhancing the income of beekeepers, increasing the production of quality honey, and ensuring the conservation of bee populations and biodiversity.

Objectives

• To promote beekeeping as a viable livelihood option in rural areas.
• To increase the production of quality honey through modern apiculture practices.
• To support the conservation of bees and improve pollination in agriculture.
• To create an enabling environment for value addition and market access in the beekeeping sector.

Benefits

• Financial Assistance: Subsidies for setting up modern beekeeping units and purchasing equipment.
• Technical Training: Capacity-building programs on modern beekeeping techniques and honey processing.
• Infrastructure Support: Assistance for establishing honey processing units and cold storage facilities.
• Market Linkages: Support in establishing direct linkages with buyers and organized markets for honey and other bee products.

Eligibility

Eligible Beneficiaries:

• Individual beekeepers and groups (FPOs, cooperatives) involved in apiculture.
• Rural households interested in adopting beekeeping as an additional income source.
• Entities engaged in honey processing, packaging, and marketing.

Exclusions:

• Applicants not engaged in or committed to beekeeping practices.
• Large-scale commercial ventures may be required to adhere to additional standards and guidelines.

Application Process

1. Interested beneficiaries can apply online via the NBHM official portal.
2. Applications are assessed by the respective state apiculture departments or nodal agencies.
3. Approved proposals receive financial assistance and technical support for establishing or upgrading beekeeping operations.
4. Official Link: NBHM Application Portal

Required Documents

• Aadhaar Card (for identity verification).
• Land Ownership or Lease Documents (if applicable).
• Beekeeping Plan/Project Proposal (detailing the beekeeping unit and processing facilities).
• Bank Account Details (for subsidy disbursement).
• Registration/Certification Documents (if already involved in beekeeping operations).