Beekeeping and Honey Production

This pilot project for women (funded by the Isle of Man Government) based in 7 villages in Uttaranchal has supported 200 women to gain income-generation skills through training for beekeeping, honey production and crafts, enabling them to help up to 1,200 members of their households.

With further funding from the Isle of Man Government for the period of 2005-2006 this project has been consolidated and expanded, while a number of valuable lessons have been added to our experience and as a base for expanding and replicating these activities.

It is proposed that during 2007 this project will be expanded to an adjacent cluster of villages. Silk-farming and medicinal herb cultivation are also due to be trialled as additional income-generation activities within this project.

Initially I was afraid of bees as they sting. It also looked technical and difficult. But Mr Mandal removed our fear. It is the only business with minimum investment and maximum return, and does not take much time.

Shanta Devi, beneficiary

I had a tough time getting poor women to come for the training in beekeeping in the beginning as they were afraid of being stung… but once the training was started by Mr Mandal, the women enthusiastically participated and learnt the techniques… and how it would help them in earning money… By being associated with [Jeevika Trust] I have personally benefited, developing my inter-personal skills. Also my recognition in the village has increased and women come to me for suggestions and help.

Mamta, Women Empowerment Officer

Initially I had to get my wife to demonstrate to the village women as they were shy of coming out of their houses and interacting with me. Soon they saw the merit and adapted to the training sessions most willingly. Some of the village women have started producing honey which is currently being consumed by them… and they are also distributing it to their friends and neighbours. Looking at the success of the project, I have been contacted by the neighbouring villagers to impart training in beekeeping.

Mr Mandal, Apiarist trainer

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