The Department of Zoology at Kohima Science College, Jotsoma, successfully organized its first-ever ZooTalk: Series-1 on April 5, 2025, at the Conference Hall. The event, aimed at enhancing awareness about the vital role of bees in ecology and the economy, was attended by a diverse group of participants, both in person and virtually.
The theme for this year’s series, ”Bees: Today and Tomorrow,” focused on the significance of bees, specifically in the fields of apiculture (bee-keeping) and meliponiculture (stingless bee-keeping), as well as their potential role in entrepreneurship development. Dr. Avinash Chauhan, Scientist at AICRP (HB & P), Department of Entomology, SASRD, Nagaland University, served as the resource person for the talk.
Dr Chauhan delivered an insightful presentation on the topic ”Understanding Apiculture and Meliponiculture and Their Role in Entrepreneurship Development.” He explored various scientific techniques that can replace traditional methods of bee-keeping, emphasizing that Nagaland has immense potential to develop meliponiculture into a sustainable enterprise. He pointed out the state’s rich floral diversity, which, when combined with modern scientific practices, can significantly enhance the growth of the sector. Dr. Chauhan also highlighted the increasing interest in meliponiculture in India, noting the growth of recognized stingless bee species from 8 in 2013 to 27 in 2025.
During his talk, Dr Chauhan discussed the myriad entrepreneurial opportunities in this field, urging participants to view it not only from a research and academic perspective but also as a potential business venture. He encouraged the audience to engage with the topic and explore the opportunities it presents for local communities.
The event was moderated by Dr Lilongchem Thyug, Associate Professor, and the conceptual note was delivered by Dr Vethselo Doulo, Associate Professor. The vote of thanks was given by Dr Anungla Pongener, Head of the Department of Zoology.
The program saw enthusiastic participation from over 70 attendees in offline mode, with more than 300 individuals joining the event online. The session was also streamed live on the official YouTube channel of the college, reaching a wider audience, including various partnering institutions across Nagaland.