Strengthening Ties Through Learning: Nepal Beekeepers Train at UHF Nauni
A two-day training programme on “Recent Technologies in Apiculture” concluded successfully at the Directorate of Extension Education, Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, bringing together 14 progressive beekeepers from Karnali Province of Nepal. The programme marked another step in strengthening cross-border collaboration in agriculture and allied sectors.
The valedictory session was graced by Vice Chancellor Dr HS Baweja, who highlighted the long-standing friendship between India and Nepal. He noted that such training initiatives not only deepen ties but also open avenues for shared learning and innovation in agriculture. Dr Baweja emphasized that the university has consistently worked as a knowledge partner, offering training opportunities to farmers and agricultural professionals from Nepal.
Speaking about the importance of beekeeping, he highlighted the value of various bee products such as honey, royal jelly and pollen, not just in agriculture but also in improving human health. He also encouraged participants to explore advanced techniques like artificial queen rearing to improve productivity. Appreciating the programme structure, he commended the Directorate for providing hands-on field exposure, which helps participants apply their learning effectively back home.
Participants from Nepal expressed their gratitude and shared how the training broadened their understanding of modern beekeeping practices. Hari Prashad Paudel and Lila Ram Dhakal said the programme introduced them to new technologies and scientific methods, enhancing their capacity to manage apiaries more efficiently. They also appreciated learning about the role of bumble bees as key pollinators.
Tika Ram Thapa, President of the Honey Producer Association in Karnali, described the training as a valuable and enriching experience. He said the knowledge gained would be shared with fellow beekeepers in Nepal and expressed interest in sending more farmers for similar programmes in the future. He also hoped for longer-duration training sessions at the university.
Earlier, Dr DP Sharma highlighted the growing importance of Karnali Province in Nepal’s horticulture sector and the immense potential for beekeeping in the region. He stressed that the programme focused on practical, hands-on learning, ensuring that participants could directly implement new techniques in their work.
Training Coordinator Dr Ajay Sharma informed that the programme was sponsored by the Honey Producer Association, Karnali, Nepal. The sessions were led by experienced faculty from the Department of Entomology, along with renowned beekeeping expert Dr Raj Kumar Thakur, a former Head of the Department and a respected figure in apiculture research and industry.
The event witnessed the presence of several university officials, including Comptroller Prem Sagar Kaushal, Dr Piyush Mehta, Dr Dinesh Sharma and Dr Kira, among others.
The programme not only enhanced the technical skills of the participants but also reinforced the spirit of knowledge exchange and cooperation between India and Nepal in the field of sustainable agriculture and beekeeping.
