The Indian Science Congress Association, Coimbatore Chapter, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore in association with ICAR-KVK (Krishi Vigyan Kendra), Karamadai, Coimbatore and Marutham Honey bee farm, Nallampalayam, Coimbatore organized a demonstration program for the rural farmers of Coimbatore district on the topic “Beekeeping an integrated farming practice for Sustainable Development”.
The program was conducted in the Jakkarpalayam village of Kinathukadavu block, Coimbatore district. A total of 86 progressive farmers and women’s self-help groups benefitted from the program.
Dr S. Paulsamy, ISCA Convener of Coimbatore Chapter, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore in the welcome address emphasized the need for integrated farming the beekeeping. He narrated the possibility of additional income and the maintenance of eco-balance through beekeeping in agriculture.
The ICAR-KVK Dr. P. Gomathi, Scientist explained the importance of integrated farming in terms of revenue generation and eco-friendly farming practices. She ensured the supply of beekeeping tools and technology to the farmers willing to do beekeeping as a part of agriculture.
Dr. S. Rajeshkumar, Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore and program coordinator demonstrated to the farmers above the methods of beekeeping, the tools used in beekeeping and the role of the honey bees in ecosystem functions like pollination and hence the production of highly viable and vigour seeds in crop production.
K. Manikandakalidas, the proprietor of Marutham bee farm, Coimbatore demonstrate the standard practice followed in beekeeping. M Indhu Barathi, CEO, Farmer Interest Group (FIG), Kinathukadavu block, Coimbatore, was part of the farmers’ program.
