The Government is focusing on honeybee farming in the Maoist-affected regions of the State in a bid to make poor villagers economically-independent.
While the assignment has been handed over to the Odisha Khadi and Village Industries Board (OKVIB), over Rs 1 crore is being invested in the first phase towards beekeeping training and supply of beehive boxes and other equipments in 18 districts.
OKVIB President Tejeswar Parida is moving in the Maoist-hit districts and generating awareness on beekeeping. Presently, he is in Koraput and moving with farmers for extension of OKVIB activities in KBK region, which is the worst Maoist-affected zone.
Apart from making the training drive to unemployed youths extensive for their livelihood through bee farming, the State Government is providing beehive boxes.
For implementation of the programme, the Government has identified 70 blocks in 18 Maoist-affected districts to provide training to the interested candidates for the profitable business.
The Government is providing 10,000 beehive boxes and other equipments required for farming in the districts.
An amount of `17,500 has been allocated for each family for distribution of beehive boxes and other accessories, which have been provided at a 5-per cent rebate.
The training is being provided by livelihood Mission Project officials, the district administrations and OKVIB officials in the districts. Arrangement has been made to purchase the entire honey from the farmers. In view of the growing demand for honey across the State, the youths are expected to earn much from the bee farming. Notably, major firms including Dabur and Patanjali are currently procuring honey from the State.